Grizz's Redneck Express 1966 Chevy Short Fleetside RESTO-GO!

[Grizz1963]

Originally Posted by flashed

As always looking good.

Thank for keeping an eye on me John....




Today I started to finish off the steering parts that I had not previously addressed after they came from the USA.

So grease nipples added and then Martin pitched for me to change direction completely..... Typical.

So they will get fitted next weekend.




QUESTION TIME

I have bought a sexy new water pump for the 350 motor.

I also bought a new chromed cast metal timing chain cover for it recently, to replace the pressed steel, rusted chrome one I removed. The new cover has been built in already.

Seems the new cover is too thick.

If you look at the photo below, you will see that with the one side pushed flush against the front of the block, the other end lifts away quite a bit from the block where the second waterway needs to meet it with a gasket.

I looked at the old pump and cover and there is a mark where the impeller cover plate at the rear pushed against the old chrome plated cover.

Note the light coming through.



SOOOOO....... MY QUESTION IS THIS:


If I had a pair of spacers or shims laser cut exactly like the gasket is patterned in 3mm mild steel or even stainless (not sure which is best option tbh) and then sandwiched it between two fibre gaskets, would this be a sensible and safe option?

I copied the gasket like this.



I am dropping the viscous fan and going with a pair of electric fans from a modern car on either a thermal switch or manual override, so the space lost toward the front should not be that critical.

All advice appreciated.

Thank you.