a14force, good to hear you are getting close to fitting that blower!
just reading your description of the intake manifold problems, i faced similar probs and had to constantly re-adjust where everything was sitting. have a look at the photos of my manifold and you will see the funny shape that it ended up being...
with the oil prob- hmmmmm, my little motor has got an oil catch can and i have to say it does blow a bit when i am giving it herbs. don't know that it would be as much you mention though....