[shaps]

Rritchey. Thanks for all the good info.

The motor sounded tight. had good pressure and held its temp very solidly.
My fear is that leaks only get worse, never better. Can check the manifold, dont think the guy wud be willing to open up the filter or pull a plug. specified "no disassembly". little worried about that.

Someone also mentioned there are 2 or 3 plugs on the back of the FE block that can leak if they are not sealed with the appropriate silicone sealant.