Quote
There was one smaller o-ring on the smaller tube that ran through between the heads, that connects to the back side of the housing.


That one.

I think your right about your accessory bracket not being fully seated. If it had something to do with the pipe/housing assy, that other bracket on the right that connects the Thermostat housing to the upper intake would not have lined up either.

99 Gen 2.5, fixing blown head gasket
89 SWB- 33's, ARB Front locker, SR rear locker/axle, SR F brakes, winch, WST Offroad Armor all Around, 2.85 Aussie T-case Gears (SOLD)
Sold: (2) 95 SR's, 86 SWB, 90LWB, 91 LWB
-Can Change a timing belt in my sleep..