Unfortunately you do have to drop the pan to remove the timing cover. There are two bolts that go through the front main cap, into the cover. And I thought only Ford had better ideas. :confused: Anyway, the motor mount isn't an issue with removing the timing cover. Those screws holding the cover on may be a booger to get without ruining them. Some of the 235's (only cars, as far as I know, but I could be wrong) had fiber timing gears. They would give no warning when they failed. The trucks had aluminum gears that shouldn't give troubles but could. To me, it definately sounds like a timing problem. Let us know what you find out.

-Tim
'51 Chevy 3104 w/'56 235, 848 Head, HEI Dizzy, Corvette Cam, Split Manifold and Dual Carter YF's