Hello,

I have a 1968 429 thunderjet I am having built. (557 stroker) I got a call from my engine guy who is now doing the assembly. He wanted to know if I had the water pump block off plate. He said some big block fords had this plate. I was careful when taking the engine apart not to misplace any parts but ***** does happen. I looked all over for this plate and can not find it. My ? is did the 1968 429 thunderjet have this plate? I think there were a few diffrent timing covers for the 429-460 mine is the one with the dip stick going through the timming cover. This is my only holdup and I am and can't wait to get this engine running. I have been into fords from the age of 16 (now 45) and this is my first "real" engine buildup. HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THANKS Guys

 

Have you checked the "back" of the old water pump? The "block off plate" your guy is referring to is sandwiched between the water pump and front cover and installs with a separate gasket. If you have the old water pump still laying around in your garage, take a look at it. If you can't clearly see the impeller then your "block off plate" is still attached to it.

 

What happened is I got this car from a guy that bought the engine from another guy. I checked with him and he said he had to put a new timing cover and waterpump on because he got the engine without them. He never had a plate and did not know if there should be one. Should the 68 429 have one if so any idea where to get one??

Thanks again