The engine that I bought was a truck block with the truck timing chain cover that is timed from the top.

My car has a short water pump that will cover the top access timing mark. I need to get a new timing chain cover so I can time the engine from the side.

I hope this isn't a dumb question, but what do I need to do for this to work? Do I need a new harmonic balancer?

Thanks in advance!

Rob

Yes, to use the 2:00 position timing tab, you need the balancer that has the mark in the right spot. Or you could re-mark your existing balancer.

You don't have to replace your timing cover however. You can get an aftermarket timing tab that bolts onto the side of the timing cover, and has the marks for the 2:00 position. Just make sure you remark your balancer, or get the right one to work with the new timing tab position.

I like the damper cover that Proform makes. It bolts right over your damper and has the timing marked in degrees all the way to 90. Great for dialing in your timing curve the hard way (without a distributor machine or dial-back light).

Just don't make the same mistake I did. I got the chrome one. It's hard to read with a timing light, and the marks don't stay on well over time and a lot of driving.

Thanks guys!

I can see how the chrome cover would be a bit tough to look at......that's pretty good.

I second the Proform cover. I checked mine while the heads were off and the TDC mark was right on the money. Use it with the bolt on timing tab Bulb mentioned. When mine was new it was a very glossy black and the gloss made it hard to read, but now it has a nice patina on it and is very easy to read.