need Ford help

[Rory McNeil]

Jim, Ford used a couple of different timing pointers for the FE engines during the 60`s. From late 63 thru 67, the tab was attatched to the aluminum timing cover with 2 small screws of the same size (5/16"?). Starting with the 68 model year, thru the end of FE production in 76, the timing tab used 1 small screw on the inner hole, and the other hole was much larger, as one of the timing cover bolts went thru the tabs and timing cover, & into the block. The 68 and later FE`s also had much thicker harmonic balancers. It sounds like you have the earlier cover, which will work fine, but is not the correct unit for a 428 CJ, as they were made only for the 68 -70 model years. If this engine is for a stock restoration it could be a concern, otherwise it will work OK. That tab on Ebay is for the 68-76 timing cover by the way. The 428 CJ tab is no different than a 360, 390, 410, or regular 428 engine, although the 428 SCJ (LeMans capscrew connecting rods) balancer is a bit larger, so the pointer is a bit different.