Year on Timing Cover (TS24)

[Frank Lyn]

Hello,

I just picked up a TS/24 with engine number (66nnn) and frame number (68nnn) which should put it squarely in the middle of production for 1924. The bike was recently registered (by the previous owner) as a 1924, sold to me as a 1924,  and I believe it to be a TS/24

BUT

There is a neat stamping on the timing cover "Douglas 1925" (two lines).  Should this be any cause for concern or can I just write it off as the timing cover having been replaced sometime in its history?

Are there any characteristics to distinguish a TS/24 from a TS/25?  To my untrained eye, all TS's look the same.

thanks.

[Chris]

Hi Frank
    I think you may just write it off as a replacement second-hand timing cover. It is quite common for the large headed screw in the end of the crankshaft that conceals the spring and ball to become loose when it acts like a milling cutter eventually cutting its way right through. It is then easier to replace the timing cover than to execute a neat repair. It is worth while always using a spot of Loctite on the thread of the screw to avoid this occurring.  Replacement new timing covers were also available from Douglas with no engraving on the cover. Chris.