I'm keen to hear about this Corvette trick too. Sharp eyesight there Jim. My hat's off to you for noticing this, even if there is a special mod. Leftover parts have never treated me well. My 400 has a bolt through the pump into the manifold and I can't think of any advantage for leaving it off, Corvette trick or not.

Bolts gotta go in before the bling. I hope all the mains are installed right and tight.