396 Big Block Water Pump Back Plate, 68

[rod396]

I need to confirm the correct water pump rear cover plate for my '68 396 "284" short pump - which is correct:
The flat, plain version, or,
The version with the flared outer lip on it??
I have seen the flat plate on '65-'66 original pumps, but do not know when they changed the rear plate design.
Also, are the 1/4 x 20 attaching bolts 7/16" hex head like the Timing Cover, or are they flat-headed, slotted screw heads?

Any help greatly appreciated.
Thank you.

[rod396]

No one knows the answer to this one?

[Mike S]

I'll check out my two '67 L35's tonight. The cover edge is easy enough to feel, I'll see what I can do about the screws.

Mike

[Camarocards]

Here is a picture of a "284" pump that I had. It was dated A256 (January 25 1966). Note that it has the flared outer lip and hex head bolts. Sorry but can't help you with the size and length of the bolt since I sold the pump a few years ago.

Hope this helps,

Bob

[My68SS]

I need to confirm the correct water pump rear cover plate for my '68 396 "284" short pump - which is correct:
The flat, plain version, or,
The version with the flared outer lip on it??
I have seen the flat plate on '65-'66 original pumps, but do not know when they changed the rear plate design.
Also, are the 1/4 x 20 attaching bolts 7/16" hex head like the Timing Cover, or are they flat-headed, slotted screw heads?

Any help greatly appreciated.
Thank you.

Mine [12c 68 396]looks exactly like Camarocards pic, curled lip and hex bolts I thought I had pics on my comp, but can't find any atm. Will put some up tomorrow.
Cheers,
Rob

[Mike S]

 I checked my two 67 L35's (engine assembly dates 0214 and 0308 of 67) and both use the plates with the lip, both have hex head style with the bolt face slightly recessed. I can't see the head markings but the bolts look like the style on the timing chain cover. The one L35 is totally original and the other I rebuilt (replaced the shaft bearing/seal) in the early 80's but used original cover and hardware.

Mike

[rod396]

Thanks for your help! I'll run with the lipped version.