Questions on Changeing intake manifold gasket is this normal?

[petey-pablo]

This is the first time ever I have Changed an intake manifold gasket I cant afford to take to a shop.I was leaking oil & coolant from the back by the Dizzy.My truck is a 72 with a 454BB & th400
1. First off what do you guys use to clean everything up without contaminating the inside of the engine? I am tring to keep all debri out as good as I can, can I use carb cleaner or other cleaners to help in removal of old RTV? I know I have to change the Oil and the coolant when I am done.
2."IS THIS NORMAL OR DO HAVE TO WORRY" I was looking at the inside of the engine and noticed these round ring things not sure what you call them but all the rods don't have them looking the same are these round things Normal to be different some up and some down I took some pictures of what I am talking about the rings in question are the ones I have circled in RED and the ones to apear normal TO ME IN BLUE I just want to be sure I don't have a problem later down the line. I guess I can call my self an uncertified Mechanic now Thanks in advance everyone for the help...