Well, I closely examined all four cylinders and cleaned each carfully with a rag and WD40. No scoring or rust or signs of physical damage. The bores look and feel smooth, the pistons move smoothly and easily. I think I'm all good there.

I maneuvered the motor and gearboc back in, hooked up the clutch (nice and tight) and most of the other lower block parts.

A few other small problems appeared (busted stuff), but nothing that prevents complete reassmbly when the new head gasket arrives.

What's the point of putting grease on a new gasket? If I don't need to remove head after reassembly and compression test, will the grease cause me any trouble?
After the wait for the replacement head gasket, I don't really want to have to retorque the thing...