Made a bit more progress. I previously posed how the aluminum threads on the water pump crossover galled up, cracking the crossover when I cranked down loosening the bolts so I had to weld the cracks back together. I drilled out the repaired aluminum and tapped it for a Helicoil. I put the helicoil in with red (permanent) locktite as I don't want it to back out as the thermostat bolts are put in and taken out. The stainless helicoil threads shouldn't gall up like the aluminum against the steel bolts.
I also picked up a nice set of tan leather middle row bench seats to go with my leather third row I found earlier. Now I just need a decent set of front seats to match. Won't directly help MPG, but should encourage others to ride with me versus the ratty and worn old seats to improve my Passenger-Miles per Gallon.
