engine assembly question

[Broncodude]

On my new block it doesn't have the small sleeves that go into the timing cover, anyone have any ideas on how to get around this. Advance doesn't have a clue, and my gasket kit didn't have them in it. All it had was two small thick gaskets to go in there. And the old ones are NOT coming out, ever...any ideas??

[enginepaul]

I never had that problem, but; I would first call the machine shop that did the block and then any other possible sources - including the pars wanted section of this site. If not think it through; there may be a substitute.
I had the sleeves in the two engines I did; but:
The front cover is held on by bolts and is aligned by the tool that slips over the crankshaft. Based on that, I'd look very closely at the assembly and if it looks like the area is sealed, I think I might try it. The slits in the cover plate at that point concern me if the sleves are left out.

[Broncodude]

Thanks for the help. I hadn't thought of the slits causing a prob but your right. I'm not sure what they are for anyway? I probably could cut a piece of thin pipe if I found the right diameter. For most people, they would have to overhauled a 2.8 to remember this little sleeve. I'm been almost to the end of the internet and found nothing...

[Broncodude]

I dont' have the tool that goes over the crankshaft?

[enginepaul]

Not impossible to do without, but not easy. Try e-bay, if you can, for a tool kit (Most won't have the rear crank seal installer but that can be done fairly easy when the engine is out)
Before I got the tools, I used three small sockets of the same outer diameter spaced around the crank.I would be best with a helper; the goal is to center the crank in the hole.
Good luck

[Broncodude]

would the dampner installed be the same thing as having three sockets in there, the seal would be over the dampner? right?

[Broncodude]

Na, that won't work. I tryed it and the cover still has play in it even with the seal/dampner on it...sockets might be next idea...I couldn't find anything on ebay or ford parts..

[enginepaul]

Look for "Rotunda" tools and tool kits. Rotunda is the name Ford uses for tools. The cover aligner comes in a kit for the 2.8. Ebay can be a pain because you sometimes need several key words - but keep trying. Also go toi the 'store' of sellers that have a lot of items and ask - they may have one that isn't listed.

[Broncodude]

Ok, thanks

[Totalled]

I used the dampener and the sleeves to locate it. The motor leaked everywhere but out of the front dampener seal in the years following. Just use the dampener.

[Broncodude]

thats kinda what I did, but I did find three sockets to help eyeball it. Its pretty close. If it leaks then I know what I'm up against. I've been messing with the front cover for three days off and on, its time to get the thing running, leaks or not...I'll keep you posted...