How to Assemble the Front of a Small Block

Great write-up! A question: will a timing cover from a '69 (or older) 340/318 fit on a '74 or newer 360 engine? Thanks!

Yes, but the timing marks are 90° off between the two. You would have to find your TDC, then put a paint mark on the damper to match the new location. I think that you will then also have to run the cast iron water pump with the lower radiator hose on the opposite side.

You can make it work.


In 70 they changed to the aluminum water pump with the radiator outlet on the opposite side and moved the timing marks also. The radiator outlet may block the timing marks if you don't use the one that "matches" the timing cover for that "era".


If you have power steering, the bracket mounting locations are also different from up to the 69 set, than the newer 70 and later. You may have to change that over also.