rtintwo: I really appreciate it. I will count the bolts in a bit.
I will give the hammer a try if the bolt cound is right.

 

as above. additionally:
if intake and exhaust are still bolted to head make sure there's nothing holding them on car (like the exhaust itself etc). other than that, the headbolt count is a good idea. I'd use a big rubber mallet. if you use a deadblow make sure to not hit corners

 

I counted the bolts I had and I was short one. Got the book and realize my mistake. There was a ton of crud on the bolt just to the right of the intake. I cleaned it off and see the bolt.

Will pull it out this weekend and hopefully be done with this for a while.

 

good call rtintwo :-)