One of Blackbird Performance’s first smart developments for the G3 Hemi market was their cast aluminum timing cover. Meant for swap and racing applications, it’s stripped down, lightweight, and utilitarian…all good features for a Mopar muscle car.
We got our hands on one to compare it to the oft-seen Ram timing cover and, really, there is no comparison. The Blackbird unit is sleeker, slimmer, and more shapely in all the right areas. The Ram cover puts accessories on the driver’s side; an alternator is up top, the air conditioning compressor is at the bottom, and the power steering pump slots in between.
And then there’s the Ram-specific water pump assembly. With an integrated thermostat neck, tensioner, and heater hoses, it’s unattractive to say the least. Blackbird’s cover strips all of that away, leaving nothing but the bare essentials.
Notice how all of the extra cast heft is gone, the water pump area is streamlined, and a separate thermostat housing is up top for a more traditional layout. Many different (and affordable) big block Chevy water pumps can fit on the front to do away with that busy and unbecoming OEM water slinger. The only added aluminum is a small boss at the 2 o’clock position for a much-needed timing pointer.
Blackbird’s cover comes with seals, hardware, and instructions for a trouble-free install. And, if accessories are needed, they’ve got alternator brackets and timing pointers too. Get your front cover covered with the guys and gals making G3 Hemi dreams come true: Blackbird Performance.
