Waggin, I agree the basic premise of yours is right... However, I think there is a much better way to get the end result than simply lining up enough things so it works right. I've found more issues from people doing just what you say, and the next guy getting totally lost by it....lol. It's just as simple for me to get the piston of the right cylinder in the right spot, and then installing the parts the way the engineers intended. Many times doing it non-standard does lead to issues with room for vacuum can swing and simple confusion by the ignorant "next guy". It still will run your way, you are right. Interstingly, I also do not owna single factory service manual. I never have...lol