The original idea was to make it simpler to adjust the main bearing clearance, since the front of the timing cover was hard to access on some cars. Since most of our old rigs don't get driven enough to require frequent rod and main bearing adjustments, the swap to all the bolts coming in from the front is a logical choice.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!