I have a STR blockguard in a LS/Vtec swap. Is it suppose to be even with the surface or 3-5mm down?

 

I think you're supposed to drill out the waterjackets, press it in, then deck your block. Not sure though, as I've never wasted money on such a thing.

 

My last motor I tapped the block guard in after much time grinding down the posts on the block guard to make it fit just right. I put it down around 5mm from the deck.

My new motor I did a flush mount and welded it in. Just check if the holes in the block guard line up with the head gasket good. If they don't sink it down a little in the block.

Do not pound it in with much force at all! Will egg out the cylinders. Should just tap in lightly.