Do you have to modify the timing chain cover by grinding down and putting a bolt and couple of washers of it? Insn't this the reason for the freeze plug really? I ask because one install talks about it and another I was looking at doesn't mention anything.

 

If you really wanted to you could leave that gear in there, but that would defeat the purpose IMO.

I've seen a couple washers, a bolt, nut, RTV, and then "messing up" the threads so that the nut can't back off.

Another option is a Freeze plug.

 

The freeze plug included with the pump is for the waterpump housing.

If you choose to remove the drive gear you will need to plug one OR two additional spots. You will definitly need to seal off the timing cover, which most people accomplish with a small nut and washers. The optional spot is on the block itself. Some people put an second freezeplug to the block itself for oil control, others leave it open allowing oil from the lifter valley down onto the timing set.

I chose to let the cam driven gear in there to just idle. Then i didn't have to worry about sealing that stuff up or anything coming loose. I don't think it defeated the purpose of the elec WP because there is no load on the gear and the friction of it idling there is minimal in the big picture.

-brent