Quote: So MP part is P4876631 is the one to get. Is this one of the MP items that is on permanent back-order? What is the difference between this one & a standard 340 type cover? Thanks for the info.
On the short deck block (like the one you have) the upper bolt hole above the water port is much lower than stock and the water port is "D" shaped to maintain some thickness for sealing the passage.
There are a few of ways to solve the problem of adapting a standard water pump to your block. First is like Mr P said, find the special timing cover to fit. I have found these pretty hard to find now, but you might be able to come across a used one. Option two is belt drive cam like Jbody said and a pair of adapters to mount a Meziere pump. Third way is the previously mentioned belt drive and then a remote mounted pump pushing water into the center core plugs of the block.
