Rod knocking from valve cover 1999 Jimmy 4wd...

[kjknittel]

[color=blue][font=arial black][size=7]I recently was told by a mechanic that my intake manifold seal was failing when I brough my vehicle in for a seperated Hub/Bearing assembly. I decided to take the problem on myself. I took the upper manifold off and cleaned it (black gritty residue over the interior.) I replaced the upper to lower gasket seal. Should I have greased it? Also the seal was torn while replacing it and I fixed it with RTV silicone gasket maker. I removed the poppets and put them back in place after the cleaning. I had to replace some studs after over torquing them. I rebored and tapped holes for a larger size. I assembled the engine exactly as it was. When I started the engine it began knocking, the engine shook continuously, smoke came from the tailpipe and it died. The engine has no symptoms like this prior to my work. The vehicle sat for 5 months as I worked on it. The oil appears to have settled in the pan. Also, I didn't hear it but the AAA guy said he heard a sucking sound.

Thank you