276 stroker from 35 years of parts

[cadillac512]

I used the early gears in my late (8CM) Merc. Worked just great. As you proceed to install the timing cover, try it without a gasket to check camshaft end play. If it's fine (I like a minimum of .003") I just use a THIN smear of RTV (or preferably an anaerobic sealer) without the gasket. Not everyone has the anaerobic stuff but RTV silicone works fine.