Some of you may have guessed from my recent post that I've had my engine out. I've put another bottom end as the old one was rattling and knocking, would have needed reboring and measuring up ect ect so jacked it off. The replacement block AGG, had covered 90k so just bedding in. So anyways, after getting everything back together all wired, plumbed in, started her up and fired first time, ran for a few seconds and stalled. Did this 2-3 times and then she ran, but, problems, shes slightly poppin at the rear, which I'm guessing may be the exhaust manifold not sealing properly

If you rev her up then let her drop back to idle, she almost cuts out! Revs drop right down but doesn't quite cut out, then stabilises back at normal idle

But the biggest worry I have... I checked the timing to be sure to be sure, turning by hand, and realised I hadn't taken the plugs out, but she still turned!! I'm thinking this is really bad as this shouldn't happen. Is it possible that the head gasket hasn't sealed properly? I followed procedure with torque-ing head bolts to correct spec, and the head was flat tested ect, and both surfaces were degreased and thoroughly cleaned before bolting up. I'm stumped! There must be a leak somewhere, just wanting to hear some suggestions before I cant rule out that it must be the head gasket and having to fork out on another gasket and bolts! Annoying!!