visual id

[Dav]

i know the 88 and earlier 2.9's have round bosses where the rockers bolt down, as opposed to the 89 and later having square mounts. but to see this the valve cover must be removed.
is there any way to tell a pre 89 from an 89 or newer by just looking? any marks, numbers or casting changes that can be seen while the motor is in a truck and completely assembled?
this year is the year of suspension restoration and upgrade (96 TIB with the better brakes) and keep it running repairs. next year is the year of the motor rebuild, and maybe the trans. (i'm doing the stuff that in 5 years i will be too old (i'm already kinda old) to do or will not be able to afford on a fixed income. this truck is the last vehicle i ever expect to own)
tomorrow i hope to be looking at an 89 as a potential donor but want to be sure it hasn't been retro fitted with an earlier motor. it's 75 miles away so i only want to make the drive once.

 

[RonD]

Not sure you can see the casting numbers, 89TM

But newer model head did have less curves in valve covers lower edge

Pictures here: http://therangerstation.com/tech_library/2_9_Page.shtml

So on the drivers side front or the passenger side rear the valve cover should be straight, 1988 and older will be curved

 

[rusty ol ranger]

86/87 has a bigger throttle body then 88-92s.

Doesnt help much though if your engine is a 88.

 

[BrutalPanda]

Ground bolt on the back of the driver side head will be 10mm if it's the newer heads. 8mm for old heads

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