283 engine rebuild - assembly questions

Hello, last summer i began my engine rebuild and posted a few questions (http://www.marineengine.com/boat-forum/showthread.php?382121-Pulling-Trans-Gear-off-283-Crankshaft) and am now back at it so starting a new thread since the short block is complete.
Attaching the rear cover and support brackets. Any advice on the sealant to use for the gaskets? Should silicon be used (looks like it was used before). Thanks...looking to do it next weekend.

Mike: Glad to hear you are back at it! When I put mine back together I used a very little bit of Permatex (#2 I think, - the non-hardening type) on the gasket. I think I would recommend using something at least on the forward side of the gasket, considering there is that joint where the oil pan and block meet.
If you have questions about the reverse gear (transmission) and what is inside it you should check out a thread I put on the "jerseyspeedskiff' forum. I had to rebuild my reverse gear with new clutch plates & seals this past winter & I posted a number of pictures of the re-assembly process for the gear case.

Ned thanks....here is a pic...looks better than the last one.
I have the Chris Craft parts book for the engine but it is weak on torque specs. Any sites or manuals you can buy that would give you all the specs? what did you torque that at?

I am sure I will be asking alot more questions

thanks again