I suppose you're all done by now, but it just occurred to me that no one mentioned the bits and pieces you should replace while 'in there'.

Since you have the timing belt covers off, a lotta folks would replace the timing belt and its tensioner, and the water pump, but never think about the oil pump seal. It goes out and creates a mess, at least it has on 4 of mine.

Since the intake manifold is off, replace the coolant hoses running to the throttle body. The coolant hoses going to the heater (through the firewall) should also be replaced, as well as the little bypass hose attached to the same metal pipe running around the back of the engine. You may want to get a new EGR pipe at the same time, they rust out, as does the AIR manifold. Don't just take it off and plug the holes, the ECM can't compensate for that kind of abuse and you will get terrible fuel mileage.

Last but not least, you are dealing with 20+ year old rubber vacuum hoses, and a lot of them. Don't even bother checking them, just replace them ALL. Mostly, it can be done after the head is back on, but is probably one of the main issues that can keep it from running right after this kind of repair. And doing all the hoses is a good way to make sure everything is reconnected.

One more thing, there are grounding wires or straps all over the engine compartment. They are there for a reason, put them all back, esp. the one from the head to the tranny bolt, valve cover to head and the valve cover to the firewall (all at the back).

Hoping you had fun, not frustration, SK