Wondering if there are any clamps or harnesses that can be used to get the compression needed? Admittedly I am not the strongest person but if needed I will get some assistance even though I'm trying to avoid that. It's a new gasket so it doesn't give.

Test fit it without the gasket to confirm the gasket is the only interference. Was the head resurfaced?

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"Rudeness is a weak man's imitation of strength" - Eric Hoffer