As for correctly and easily setting the intake manifold directly in place on your first try, you do not need to have a second pair of hands but you do need four 5/16 inch studs
install them in the four vertical manifold bolt holes to use as guides when lowering the manifold into place
install the other manifold bolts, pull the studs and install those four bolts and torque everything according to the Ford torque instructions
and yes, I strongly endorse the aerosol can of PermaTex right stuff for the China wall gasket
Larry