Converting from new flywheel cover to old cast iron

[ronstory]

All--

I'm looking to rebuild my extra A4 and someone gave me a cast iron cover from an older engine. I know the newer engines like mine with the flat steel cover have deeper flywheel housing. Is it as simple as getting one of the older flywheel housing and then making sure it clears the new style flywheel?

If I do this, with the same starter work or will this just become too much of a headache and should just be happy with what I have?

[ronstory]

Any suggestions?

[ndutton]

Haven't responded because I don't know. I have a question though. Why? What's the motivation?

[Al Schober]

I see the motivation - he likes the cast cover!
Try it and see if it fits.

[ndutton]

I see the motivation - he likes the cast cover!

I should have been more specific. Any practical reason?

[sdemore]

Where is the like button for that last clarification???

[GregH]

The cast iron looks cool for sure. As I am learning how to use timing light, the cast cover makes it more difficult for me to flash the pin

[ndutton]

As I am learning how to use timing light, the cast cover makes it more difficult for me to flash the pin

Here's something you can do with a sheet metal cover that's beyond difficult with a cast cover:

http://www.moyermarineforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=108494&postcount=44

[Al Schober]

Old engines used the cast cover - with a different starter, flywheel, and flywheel housing. I believe the new starter uses flywheels which are a slight bit bigger, hence the housing was made bigger. Some early housings will fit the bigger flywheel - usually with some grinding involved.
Do NOT know if the bolt pattern for the two covers is the same - might be.