Timing Covers and Accessories

Cooling System Components - Timing Covers and Accessories

The timing cover on a Pontiac V8 does more than just shield the timing chain; it is a critical component of the cooling and lubrication systems, housing the front crankshaft seal, water pump connection, and, often, the oil pump's bypass components. Given its multi-functional role and susceptibility to leaks and corrosion over decades of use, upgrading the timing cover and its associated accessories is a vital step in any serious Pontiac engine build.

Butler Performance provides a range of high-quality replacement, refurbished, and conversion kits to ensure the heart of your Pontiac runs reliably and efficiently.

From OEM to aftermarket timing covers, Butler stocks many covers and accessories for early and late model Pontiacs.

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More About Timing Covers and Accessories

The 8-Bolt vs. 11-Bolt Conversation

 

A fundamental choice for Pontiac V8 builders is which style of timing cover to use. Pontiac engines originally came with two main designs:

 

  • 8-Bolt Timing Cover (Pre-1969): Used on early high-performance models (389, 421, 428). While original, this design is known to be less efficient in its water flow management, and the original covers are often corroded or damaged.

     
     

  • 11-Bolt Timing Cover (1969-1979): Introduced in 1969, this design offers superior water pump sealing and flow efficiency. The water pump uses 11 bolts, and the design places the water pump divider plate externally, providing better control of coolant flow channels.

     

The Butler Solution: Conversion Kits

For enthusiasts building an earlier model Pontiac (1964–1968) but seeking modern reliability and cooling efficiency, Butler Performance offers 8-Bolt to 11-Bolt Timing Cover Conversion Kits. These comprehensive kits replace the older 8-bolt cover and often include:

 

  • A high-quality reproduction 11-bolt timing cover.

     

  • A high-volume 11-bolt water pump.

     

  • The necessary water pump plate and sleeves.

     

  • All required gaskets and alignment sleeves.

     

  • Conversion Pulleys (in some cases) to ensure proper belt alignment when switching from the inch height of the 8-bolt water pump to the inch height of the 11-bolt pump.

     

This conversion is highly recommended, particularly for high-horsepower street engines that demand optimal thermal management.

 

Essential Timing Cover Accessories

 

The cover itself is only as good as the parts that seal it and optimize its function. Butler Performance provides crucial accessories to guarantee leak-free operation and cooling efficiency:

  • Stainless Steel Water Pump Divider Plates: The divider plate sits between the timing cover and the water pump, separating the inlet from the outlet. Butler offers zinc-coated or stainless steel divider plates for both 8-bolt and 11-bolt covers. Stainless steel is a popular upgrade as it resists the corrosion and pitting common with the original steel plates, ensuring maximum water pump efficiency.

     
     

  • Water Pump Sleeves: On the 11-bolt design, the coolant is directed via small sleeves that transfer water from the cover to the pump plate. Butler offers high-quality stainless steel sleeves with rubber O-rings to ensure a positive, leak-free seal and efficient flow.

     
     

  • Timing Chain Cover Alignment Sleeves: These small sleeves are crucial during installation. They fit into the lower bolt holes of the timing cover and align the cover with the block, ensuring the front crankshaft seal is perfectly centered around the balancer hub. This simple step prevents a common cause of front main oil leaks.

     
     

  • Pontiac Timing Cover to Intake Seal: Butler also offers the specialized O-rings or seals required for the bolt that runs from the timing cover into the intake manifold, which seals the water crossover passage.

     

By offering high-quality reproduction timing covers (including refurbished original 8-bolt covers for purists) and a full complement of accessories, Butler Performance ensures the front of your Pontiac V8 is built for leak-free, high-performance reliability.