The Ford Barn

Vince1962 · 01-26-2026, 02:41 PM

Hello all, I've got a 221 with (many) issues. The block has been converted to insert mains, and a late modified crank has been installed. Currently I am fighting the timing gears. This engine was a fresh rebuild (unknown builder) that failed shortly thereafter. When the engine came in the fiber cam gear was destroyed, with multiple teeth missing. An aluminum NOS was sourced and installed (press on style). My problem is with the crank gear installed I have ZERO lash, in fact its so tight it binds the crank and will damage the aluminum gear. I am concerned the cam centerline is off, as the bores have repair sleeves installed. The other possibility is the gears don't actually match. I am told there is a difference between an early and late crank gear, but nobody has been able to tell me what the difference actually is. Currently its a "2704" which is the early style. Is it possible the NOS aluminum gear is profiled for the "new" style despite being the old press on center? Does anybody have any insight on this issue?

I have posted this on AACA and The Hamb already

01-26-2026, 02:41 PM	#1
Vince1962 Junior Member Join Date: Jan 2026 Posts: 1	1935 221 timing gear lash Hello all, I've got a 221 with (many) issues. The block has been converted to insert mains, and a late modified crank has been installed. Currently I am fighting the timing gears. This engine was a fresh rebuild (unknown builder) that failed shortly thereafter. When the engine came in the fiber cam gear was destroyed, with multiple teeth missing. An aluminum NOS was sourced and installed (press on style). My problem is with the crank gear installed I have ZERO lash, in fact its so tight it binds the crank and will damage the aluminum gear. I am concerned the cam centerline is off, as the bores have repair sleeves installed. The other possibility is the gears don't actually match. I am told there is a difference between an early and late crank gear, but nobody has been able to tell me what the difference actually is. Currently its a "2704" which is the early style. Is it possible the NOS aluminum gear is profiled for the "new" style despite being the old press on center? Does anybody have any insight on this issue? I have posted this on AACA and The Hamb already