[ERA Chas]

I'm sorry for your understandable frustration-but...
Although I have no experience with the Cometics, the 1247 S-3 is the problem-solver.
I think the difference with the 90145 is the face material. The S-3's (also with steel core) have near 'lineoleum-like' faces which do not absorb coolant like fibrous materials. Absorbing coolant causes inferior gaskets to wrinkle, twist and shift allowing them to pull away from the water ports, letting coolant into the intake ports.
Designed by Barry Rabotnick and put into FelPro's catalog, they're the real deal. Also, ditch cork gaskets forever -use R/S or the Motorcraft sealants.
I wouldn't waste your time with a popcorn gasket recommendation.