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I've owned a few of these old Ford inlines in the past and all of the ones I ever owned had a 2-bolt valve cover on them - two bolts in the top center of the valve cover that held it in place. I recently acquired a '60 F-500 with a 223 in it that has a valve cover on it that is bolted down via its perimeter instead of two bolts in the top center. What is the significance of this? Does this engine have some sort of a unique cylinder head on it? I've never seen one like this before. The valve cover also has "FORD" embossed in it.
That was a design change in 1960. I don't think there is any difference other then the casting in the valve cover area to take the bolts. I have a 59 head on mine with the two stud/nut cover..
I've owned a few of these old Ford inlines in the past and all of the ones I ever owned had a 2-bolt valve cover on them - two bolts in the top center of the valve cover that held it in place. I recently acquired a '60 F-500 with a 223 in it that has a valve cover on it that is bolted down via its perimeter instead of two bolts in the top center. What is the significance of this? Does this engine have some sort of a unique cylinder head on it? I've never seen one like this before. The valve cover also has "FORD" embossed in it.
Ford changed the 223 cylinder head in 1960, valve cover has 8 bolts around its perimeter to retain it to the head. This head/valve cover was used 1960/64.
My 60 has the perimeter bolts as well-be sure to double check the valve cover gasket if you have to replace, two different types. Some parts stores will not let you return if opened.