Ford Timing Cover

[kwoolard]

Does anybody know why there is a slot at the bottom of the gasket surface for the circulating pump on a Ford timing cover? I noticed one on mine after I removed my circulating pump for cleaning and a new gasket. When I reinstalled and ran the engine, water drained from this slot for about a minute and stopped, as if it had sealed itself up. What is the slot's purpose?<br /><br />A picture of the timing cover is in the link below:<br /><br /> Ford Timing Cover

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Ford Timing Cover

"K" don't know ....It's been awhile since I have had mine off....I don't remember if I had that or not.....Wish I could help more....Did you ever get your heat issues resolved?....JK

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Ford Timing Cover

Take a look at the water pump.My idea is the back of it has a plate and gasket.The slot may be there to let you know this plate or gasket has failed.In other words,no water should be in the chamber that has the slot.<br /><br />DHP

 

[kwoolard]

Re: Ford Timing Cover

DHP, that was my guess as well. As it would only show water with a gasket leak there. Still not sure why it leaked initially, and then sealed itself up. Maybe it sealed up with some rust sediment or particles that were flushed out of the block???<br /><br />JK, my heat issue was resolved after I inspected the mechanics work. He never replaced the lower unit water pump to start with, even after I brought the boat back to him claiming I still was overheating, which was what I paid him to do. Oh well, you live and learn I guess.

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Ford Timing Cover

Can you believe $549.00 for a steel timing cover? Gulp! I guess that is why I couldn't find one when I obtained a replacement motor for my stolen one.<br /><br />I used the aluminum cover but I'm running a closed system.<br /><br />That slot is simply a relief in case there is a leak on the back side of the water pump.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Ford Timing Cover

WOW ! ! I always thought the lower unit impeller was where to start on any overheat problem.<br /><br />DHP

 

[qaztwo]

Re: Ford Timing Cover

I saw that to almost $600.... ouch