UPDATE:
JZ, that black "shaved off" looking rubber piece is more straight than like the round red pieces I found inside the WP housing. See pics of the red in my first post. It feels like gasket..not as soft/pliable as the red. I checked the old TS gasket and it is entirely intact and still on the old TS, even tho it looks/feels like it could be from there, I don't think it is.
THE FLUSH: After I pulled the TS out, I did the engine flush several times starting w/top hose. The first time I got pale green water, yet relatively clean. No pieces or debris, gasket material etc. The water flow from both hoses seemed normal, didn't trickle whatsoever. I assume there is no blockage in the engine.
I've read your previous posts several times and don't see (may have missed it tho) if I should do the rad that way too. But I guess it can't hurt ayy?
I'm not sure how to flush the heater core even though I've done several searches here and on other sites. I have the flush kit from the auto parts store. Please see the attached pic and tell me where I need to splice this in to do the flush. Do I need to use some sort of de-clog fluid? ie- CLR, etc. The guy in the ap store told me I'd have to cut the heater hoses to splice in this kit...is this correct? I have an air compressor if it will help. In your reply, please "draw me a picture, lol" Thanks! In the meantime, I'll keep googling.
Thanks all!