Timing cover preference OEM?

[fairlaniac]

So I need a timing cover for my 427 project. I have an old '59 stamped steel and a D2 that ultimately has a crack. So I was looking for one and thought I'd pick up a local 352 from a '66 F250, $40 for the whole thing including accessories. Take it apart to find the timing cover is cast iron. Not that I ever dealt with many covers but I thought they we all aluminum? Any reason not to use the cast iron cover other than weight?

thanks!

[BattlestarGalactic]

Hmmm, wonder if it is a truck thing?   I know my '67 F100 352 was aluminum, but were the earlier years possibly different?

[blykins]

Gotta use the thick gasket with those.

[thatdarncat]

Ford Parts Book shows that truck timing cover used on ‘65 F100 & F250 4x4 and F350, and ‘66 F250 4x4 and F350. The other FE pickups those years should have the aluminum timing cover. I know I raided a ‘66 pickup with 352 at the local U-Pull lot last year, it had the aluminum cover.

[cammerfe]

Iron covers have a front center motor mount built in. Used in heavier-duty trucks. Some of the big truck accessories get in the way of ordinary block-mount side attachments.

KS

[BattlestarGalactic]

I kinda figured it my be a "FT" kinda of thing?

[fairlaniac]

This was from a '66 F250 and it does have the front, center engine mount on the block.

[GJCAT427]

The front centermount was on some of the 352s in the mid 60s pickups 3/4 ton 4x4s and yes it was a cast iron unit timing cover. Also can be found in some boats as well. Do you need an aluimium cover Call me I have several including a NOS. I would be interested  in your iron unit. Garry  716 seven 5 three 0 one  four 1. If I don`t answer leave a message and I`ll call back

[fairlaniac]

Garry,
I found another D2 cover in my stash that will work. But I'd still be interested in a trade if you still have interest in the cast iron cover. Even swap, each pay shipping? Let me know and I'll call you to exchange addresses.

Thanks!

[GJCAT427]

Doug, which unit do want? Sounds like a plan. Garry

[fairlaniac]

Garry,
A used aluminum cover is fine. I'll clean up the cast iron cover for ya and get it packed up. Is it best to PM our addresses for accuracy?

Thanks!

[GJCAT427]

You can call or send me a pm through this forum. Either is fine If you call I can give you an update of the 427 I build for the Galaxie. Garry

[pbf777]

      Often the industrial FE engine line (as used as "boat motors" as mentioned previously) incorporated a cast iron front cover. And decades ago, was somewhat popular replacement for those with a bad experience with aluminum examples.       

     Scott.