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I decided to investigate the whole issue of which timing sets fit which years and to understand the differences. There is a lot of ignorance and misinformation out there (including what Ford dealers tell you)! Here is what I have found after contacting many of the manufacturers.
The clearest explanation came from Wayne Gray at Cloyes (I told him I would post it): "1968 to 1972 429/460CID engines were factory TDC. 1973 to about 1985 engines were 8 degree factory retarded at the crank sprocket. The Cloyes 9-3122 (and 9-1122) is TDC. The 9-3130 (and 9-1130) is 8 degree retard. Ford went back to TDC in 1986 at the factory. Everyone who knows the difference in the sets uses the TDC set on all years!!!" Any of the timing sets (cam gears, chains and crank sprockets) will fit any of the years, 1968 to present. The Cloyes catalog information (available on the web) is very clear.
I also give credit to Comp Cams, SA Gear, Dynagear, PBM, Rollmaster and Crane for their input.
If anyone disagrees or has something to add, please post!
Jim
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