OK, I think I may have slipped the timing chain or gears (whatever is in there). In Chevie's infinite wisdom, it appers that I have to pull the pan to remove the timing cover.

unfortunately, my Grandpas old truck is covered in chicken chit. To the point that I can't really see what I'm up against.

1. What is the easiest way to inspect the timing chain/gears? Is the motor mount an issue?

2. Is this a common failure for the 235s of this era (1962, 94k miles)?

Background: It was purring like a kitten, then I killed it at a stop sign engaging 1st gear with the clutch. It's never been right since. I've replaced all of the ignition, and put the dizzy in every gear on the cam. The dizzy spins with the engine. But, it only backfires. fuel pump working, carb rebuilt just before it quit, and it was running good.

62 1/2 Ton Stepside, 3 on the tree and 235 I6
Grandpa gave it to me, it is straight and original with about 90K original miles..