(Like within living memory)
Zomeone @ Mercedes discovered that certain parts were interchangeable.
Shortly,the Manufacturing process (AND Parts utilization methods) were
Intentionally changed to approach "One Size" [or Part] "Fits All' [Or as Much
as it was possible to do !]
Zo, it's possible to have old (Or New Stock / "Old") parts that will fit your
application.
BUT ! Y'all best be Very,Very CAREFUL when using "Less than Yesterday's
production run of Parts".
Zometimes... The Parts themselves are ACTUALLY changed in design to
"Improve" ( OR "CORRECT" ) the part...
Case in point:
The Timing Cover(s) under discussion.
The "Newest" Version has "Strengthening" Lattices incorporated into the
support within the cover.
SEE: GSXR's pictures of his Failed T.C. on his website. V.S. the Newer one.
http://www.w124performance.com/images/OM603_timing_cover/
http://www.w124performance.com/images/OM603_timing_cover/timing_covers1.jpg