Flexplate install


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By Mark R - 17 Years Ago
Hi All,

On a 1957 Thunderbird 312, Fordomatic, is it possible to describe the flexplate installation in writing? I bought this car already taken apart and now I'm ready to install the rebuilt 312 and Fordomatic. I have the flexplate, 3 rings, and the bolts and want to be sure they are correctly installed. I am dropping the transmission and engine together as a unit but need to know the flexplate set up in order to mate them together.

I've checked all the usual Ford literature, shop manual, Fordomatic manual, etc, even the internet. The flexplate is just overlooked. The only illustration I can find is in the Parts Illustrated manual and it does not show much, no rings, or detail, its just part of the torque convertor exploded view.

This flexplate is the newer one piece version, not riveted.

Any help much appreciated. My direct email is jmrob@gci.net. if anyone has pictures handy.

Thanks, Mark, Alaska

By MoonShadow - 17 Years Ago
If you have all the parts it shouldn't be too hard. You can usually see a mark on the flexplate where one of the rings was. That side goes away from the block. Then one ring (I usually turn the sharp edge in and smooth out, don't know if it matters). You will have to "clock" the flexplate as it only fits one way on the bolt pattern. Next install the bolts. For an automatic you should have the shorter ones. Just make sure the bolts don't stick way through the crank flange and interfere with the engine block. Torque to spec and thats it!

Its also worth a look to make sure the ring gear teeth are in decent shape on the starter side. If badly damaged you may have starting problems. Hope this helps. Chuck in NH

By Mark R - 17 Years Ago
Thanks Chuck. Just to be sure,  I use one of the rings? Not all 3?

Mark

Alaska

By pegleg - 17 Years Ago
Mark, one! Keep two for spares or throw them at the bears!

                                                Frank 

By Mark R - 17 Years Ago
Hey Frank...Been a long time. Bears galore up here lately, even one in the yard. Thanks for the info. Once I get this unit installed and the prestart done I'll be off to the races and maybe driving this heap next summer. Snow is a coming.

Mark