Classic/Antique Car Repair: 67 cadillac engine, thrust plate, oil grooves

Question
What oils the timing chain and distributor gear.I just rebuilt engine and there is no oil under the timing cover area.

Answer
The timing chain and the mechanism mounted in the timing case or front covers is lubricated by throw off from the front main and the number one cam bearing. The thrust plate that goes on behind the cam timing sprocket should have oil grooves milled into one surface. That surface with the milled grooves should be installed so the grooves are up against the block allowing oil from the number one cam bearing to be directed to the cam sprocket to be splashed around the case. It is possible that number one cam bearing is installed incorrectly so that it lubrication hole is not aligned with the oil passage in the block. The front main should also be throwing off oil into the case but most of that will drain right back into the crankcase.
Brad