[12Ounce]

a) You're pretty much on track. Do you have one of those plastic hand vacuum pumps? AutoZone has them for about $20 bucks. They are awfully handy for this kind of sleuthing.

c) First, stuff some wadded shop towels into each hole you want to prevent something falling into. I have a spray can of gasket remover (by GM, I believe) that really softens up any gasket ... making it easy to remove.

d) Thanks for the offer. But I already have mine. About to drive it on a little trip ... I think. LOL.