Tining Cover Question
 

Okay engine gurus. Is the timing gear cover on a 350 the same as the one on a small block 400 ? While we are at it do those engines use the same dipstick ?

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

Timing cover yes, I think the dip stick too but not certain....

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

It will depend on years of the block some are passanger and some are driver side
As long as they both have dipstick on same side your good to go just double check level reads correct

I had a shiny chrome one that said full when engine was still a quart low

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

All small blocks 1979 and earlier should use the same dipstick. In 1980 the dip stick was moved to the passenger side. The '55-'85 timing chain covers are all interchangeable.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

Thanks for the info everyone. The dipstick on my engine block is on the drivers side and the casting number shows could be 79 or 80 block but I guess with Captainfab's info I guess its a 79 block. A friend has aboriginal 350 dipstick I can have now to find a good timing cover. I'm geting a SB 400 built for my 72 C10.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

The timing cover seal changed in 74 or so. That could throw you a curve if one of those engines is older than that.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

AG,
Good choice on the 400!!!
All the timing covers mentioned WILL interchange! BUT, the time mark can be in different places for the specific balancer used.
A 400 takes the largest balance that was used on a small block, I believe 8 inch.

You may be able to/or have to install a bolt on timing tab. It attaches to 2 of the timing cover bolts

Man I have a built 400 I plan to put in my 67 C10. Need to install an old 283 first, just wanting to get it running. It will take more $$$ for better tranmission and rear end parts for the 400 install...

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

The difference is in the front of the oil pan not the timing chain cover.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

You can put the fat seal in the old timing covers? I guess my memory is getting foggy.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

75 and earlier use the thin seal.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

Yes, the timing cover channel for the seal are all the same until you get to 1986.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

Again, thanks for the help everyone.

Re: Tining Cover Question
 

Not sure if anyone has mentioned this aspect

There are two different sump / timing cover depths...just make sure you have a matching pair...see image attached...