This is not meant to be patronizing or derogatory in any way, but simply a quick question...
Did you have any auto repair/maintenance experience prior to doing this job? The reason I'm asking is because although the Intake overhaul is a fairly simple procedure, it would not be the first one I would undertake if I were new to auto mechanics. Especially since you're dealing with perhaps the most important part of your car... the engine.
Just a thought, since it seems like you ran into some trouble with a few things along the way.
