I put the timing cover from my 72 318 on my 98 5.9 without an issue, balanced went right in. Also I think Mancini has decent prices on pickups, I bout one used from a member but for a few bucks more could've gotten a new one and not need to worry if there was crud in it.
Pickup....
http://www.manciniracing.com/mopenstocpas.html