1961 FD-15 Seahorse 18 HP

[KWS59]

Hi - I'm resurrecting this old motor, I got a new head gasket. My question: the old one has "slots" for the water jacket, the new one has a couple little holes (no slots). Should I "carve out" or punch out the slots?? picture attached
Thanks

 

[Crosbyman]

water circulates under pressure and should flow enough I would not tear into a new gasket

 

[tphoyt]

Agreed I don’t see any need to cut the slots.
Best