This photo shows the point in a head gasket replacement where the heads had been removed and the block prep was about to begin.
Actually, getting to this point created a new enthusiasm to move forward with the project because I could now begin the process of re-assembly. I had already successfully completed a head gasket replacement project on my 2001 GMC just a few days prior, so this one seemed easier... I only wish I'd had the "Duramax Service Guide" before beginning.
Here's what it looked like before/after replacing the head gaskets: