Clutch flywheel

[Rainer S.]

Is the starter gear, which mounts to the flywheel, symetrical ? The teeth, facing the starter, are slightly "worn". Could I flip the gear over and clean-up the burrs ? That way, the teeth, facing the starter would be as new. Or Go with a new gear ?

Rainer

[Joe L.]

Re: Clutch flywheel

rainer-----

The flywheel ring gear is "symetrical" and can be installed either way. Nothwithstanding that, if I were going to go through the trouble of replacing one, I'd use a new gear. These gears are not real expensive and are available from both GM and the aftermarket.

The gear for the 14" flywheel is GM #460583 and GM lists for $64.14. However, it's available for a lot less from discount GM dealers and even less in the aftermarket (about 20-25 bucks).

[Rainer S.]

Re: Clutch flywheel

Thanks, I'll get a new one...

Rainer

[Tom P.]

Re: Clutch flywheel

Sorry, but I'm too much of a cheapskate. I have flipped ring gears on flywheels more times than I can count. If a ring gear will last 30-40years one way, then it will probably last another 30-40yrs the other way, especially with the decreased use it will likely receive now. I use a flat punch to gently remove the ring gear. Then I place it in the over at about 400-500deg for 30-45min, remove it from the oven with 2 pair of pliers, drop it on the flywheel (flipped over of course), make sure it is tapped all the way down and let it cool. Sure is a heck of a lot cheaper than $25-65 for a new one. And I've never had one cause any problems.

[Chuck R.]

Re: I have to teel you

I used to flip rings as well until I lost a chunk of teeth out of the ring gear the second time I rolled the engine over.

New rings for me from that day on

My nickles worth.

Chuck

[Chuck R.]

Re: Teel? How about TELL *NM*