Biggest concern; I wanted to rotate the engine a LITTLE. That didn't happen. Rotated, on it's own, till intake and exhaust ports were facing up.
Intake ports have a ton of carbon buildup which is pretty damned loose.
Should I just go ahead and pull the head, do I need to?
I guess I could lap the valves while Im in there, but I never planned to.
Just wanted to clean up the block and inspect bottom end.

That said, I have the oil pan out. What's the best way to clean it in and out?

I can move connecting rods front to back, back to front. Not much, but audible. Im not sure if this is normal or not as this is the first time Ive been this deep into a block. Thoughts?

While I have it all apart, what about cleaning the crank case area? God forbid I get any debris in there.
Basically I want to at least thoroughly clean the outside and paint it, but still worried junk will fall inside. Whats a safe way to do this at home?

Any other tips or recommendations welcome!

 

I can move connecting rods front to back, back to front. Not much, but audible. Im not sure if this is normal or not as this is the first time Ive been this deep into a block. Thoughts?

Connecting rod side clearance should be .004" to .013" measured with a feeler gauge. I'd put a new oil pump in it as long as it's apart. Just give it a good "blow" job before putting the pan back on.

Carbon in the intake manifold is from oil vapor from the CCV and dirt in the air. When cars had carburetors, the fuel vapor would wash away this junk. There should only be one valve open or two partially open, so you can break that stuff up and vacuum it out. Take the plugs out if they aren't already, then you can use air pressure to blow anything out the fell thru the open valves AFTER you vacuum it. You don't want to get any more stuff in there that isn't all ready. I wouldn't pull the head unless you want to scrape the pistons and grind the valves. JMHO.