8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Noticed tonight that the aluminum timing cover on our 4” stroke, 1CM cam, and 0BA distributor Flathead has two timing pointer locations. The pin is currently set in the 8RT location with a plug in the 0BA hole. What determines which hole the pointer is located in?

JB

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Forgot to mention this engine is in a 52 F1 and running the stock truck pulley.

JB

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

8RT is a truck engine, so I would think it’s set right.

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Thank you

JB

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

The crank pulley diameter is different between car and truck so that is why there is 2 different locations for the pointer.

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

I'm not sure about the timing difference but pulley diameter will make no difference. The truck hole might be retarded a bit for heavy loads but then again the car heads had higher compression so that would necessitate retarding. Can't see how pulley diameter would make a difference unless the pin locations are one above the other.

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

The worst part of the alum cover is the ware pattern on the cam thrust surface, causing a large cam backlash. One way to check this is with the aluminum ball trick. Attach on to the nose of the cam and rotate the engine. .008'010" is normal. I have found as much as .020 . The only way to fix this is a shim behind the cam timing gear. . WHY?? The excessive baclklash has an effect on timing

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

The different locations are just to keep the indicator closest to what ever crank pulley is being used. Has nothing to do with timing.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...3&d=1578061290

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Hi Ron, for some time now when we build with any aluminum covers we install a nylon cam button, same button used for cam end-play in the SBC's.

It's a simple "lay-in" deal, simply sand the front edge to set the end play. Takes only a few minutes to get it right, the nylon sands quickly!

Thanks, Gary in N.Y.

P.S. Wishing all here a very "Happy New Year"

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Perhaps a better way to address the problem for most would be to adjust the thickness of the cover to block gasket or eliminate gasket and use liquid gasket.
Then again have appropriate amount of material removed from cover mounting surface.

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Sounds like a better solution.

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Really good thoughts and I appreciate the responses. Great, you gave me something else to worry about, cam end play....

JB

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

GOSFAST: That nylon cam button is a neat idea.

Re: 8BA aluminum timing cover
 

Thanks Gary, sure sounds like you've solved another pesky flathead problem