What is this for?(see photo)

What is this for? Its part of the timing cover. I need some sort of timing tab and probably timing tape and was wondering if this is some sort of mounting bracket or what? Doesn't seem to be useful otherwise? See photo ->

 

do you have a clearer pic? it looks like its might be the marker to set the timing

 

Heres a better picture :

 

I belive that was For a crank trigger used on ford retunda diagnostic machine.

 

I agree! i was always told it was for Dealer use

 

It was also used on some 351W engines with a crank trigger ignition to house the pickup. It would also have had a reluctor wheel with 4 spikes on it behind the balancer.

 

OK thanks, but what does all of this mean? I'm not familiar with it. Is it still useful for something?

 

i would venture to say it is absolutley useless to you, so don't worry about it

 

Alright, thanks. Can anyone recommend something for reading the timing. Like an aftermarket timing tab, and should I tape the damper or will the factory marks be readable under the light?

 

I make my marks more visible with contrasting colors. On this one I moved the marks so i could read them better:
http://mmb.maverick.to/attachment.php?attachmentid=37309&d=1254538737

 

You can basically use any pointer you want and put it anywhere you want IF you put a timing tape on it. Autozone carries mr gasket timing tape. Just install a pointer. Then find TDC by either using a piston stop or something similar like a wooden dowel. Once you have TDC line up the pointer with the TDC mark on the tape and apply to the balancer. Then just use a timing gun to time it.

 

Alright, good stuff - thanks guys!