The car is an 87 Vette. I see an awful lot of timing chains out of different materials like billet and such, and others are adjustable, do I need that? Its running a ZZ409 cam and a ported bigmouth intake and SLP runners.
Next I need a timing chain cover, something sharp looking, I looked around and noticed that there are 2 water pump varieties long and short, so how do I know which one I have?

 

You have the "Long" style, as in its drive shaft, with a deep pulley. You'd be better off installing the timing chain straight up. Just get a good "TRUE" double roller chain such as "Cloyes". But I think there's realy only 3 manufacturers, but I like there's best.
Chrome timing covers are easier to keep clean, Mr.Gasket works fine.
If you can afford a little more get a Jegs, High Flow "Long" water pump, or equiv...just make sure it's for a serpentine belt or the impeller will spin backwards and you'll overheat.

 

i agree. Cloyes makes a nice one. i had one in my ill fated 350 project