What is a transmission flex plate?
What is a transmission flex plate?
Basically a flywheel or flex plate is the round metal disc shaped component that transfers power from the engine to the transmission. The flex plate bolts to the engine crank shaft and to the torque converter of your automatic transmission.
What attaches to the flex plate of the engine?
A flexplate is mounted to the crankshaft and connects the output from the engine to the input of a torque converter. Torque converters replace the clutch of a manual transmission.
Does the flywheel connect the crankshaft to the transmission?
The crankshaft is connected to the front pulley to drive accessories, the flywheel in the rear to convey that power to the clutch or torque converted (manual or automatic transmission) then to the transmission. It is also geared to the the oil pump, and possible others depending on the engine configuration and age.
What kind of Flexplates are available for Ford?
Stock replacement, stamped, heavy-duty flexplates are available for Ford, Chrysler and Chevy applications, while a complete line of .140″ thick Chrysler and Ford flexplates with GM and Ford bolt patterns are available for use with adapter plate kits. Extra durable flexplates from TCI® are also available for Ford and Chevy circle track applications.
What kind of flexplate does a GM circle track use?
Extra durable flexplates from TCI® are also available for Ford and Chevy circle track applications. Premium Flexplate for GM 1986-94 (1 Pc. Rear Main Seal) – External Balance, Dual Bolt Pattern, 168-Tooth
Do you need harmonic balancer on Chevy 153 tooth flexplate?
Pictured is a 1986-1997 Chevy 153 Tooth Flexplate with the external balance weight highlighted. You may also need a Harmonic Balancer. If you are unsure of what year engine you are working on, simply do an internet search of the casting numbers on the block.
Where does the flexplate go on an automatic transmission?
The flexplate takes the place of the flywheel on automatic transmission vehicles. It bolts to the end of the crankshaft and attaches to the torque converter. There is also a large gear attached, used by the starter to crank the engine.
What kind of flex plate does a hemi Gen3 use?
This Flexplate Driveplate is designed to work with most normal 5/16″ torque converter bolts that had 1 offset hole (like found in most all 904,998,999,727,518 transmissions, 1995 and earlier) Special Circular Design allows Flexplate to be 34% Stronger.
What causes the flexplate of an engine to crack?
Excessive crankshaft flange run-out or end plate can also cause flexplate cracking. This may occur in worn engines or engine that have been poorly rebuilt. An engine, transmission or torque converter that has been dropped may also have damage that will cause misalignment. When a running engine ingest water or coolant, the crankshaft may be bent.
How long does it take for a flexplate to crack?
More severe misalignment can break a flexplate in 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Excessive crankshaft flange run-out or end plate can also cause flexplate cracking. This may occur in worn engines or engine that have been poorly rebuilt. An engine, transmission or torque converter that has been dropped may also have damage that will cause misalignment.
