59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

[R K.]

I am working in the engine compartment cleaning, painting, etc. (engine/transmission are out) and there is a "shield" made out of about 3/16" steel bolted to the fiberglass above the clutch area. I don't see this anywhere in my assembly manual and noticed that the bolts are stainless - - - definitely not factory. Is this supposed to be there? It is very well made and looks factory but I am just not sure.

i searched both this forum and the internet and haven't been successful in finding a picture or info.

Help.

thanks,
Reggie

[Leif A.]

Re: 59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

Sounds like someone's attempt at a scatter shield. Any possibility for a photo??

[R K.]

Re: 59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

That's what it looks like to me also. Not sure why they would do that since the motor wasn't hopped up with anything special but based on the way it was made I'm just not sure.

I will get some pics tomorrow and post.

Thanks for the response.
Reggie

[Don H.]

Re: 59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

It about has to be a scatter shield. I installed a scatter shield (bought from an ad in the Driveline) in my '60 years ago because I drag race it. Although I have never personally seen a cast flywheel explode, I have seen pictures, it is not pretty. Only having an aluminum bell housing and fiberglass body between the flywheel and your legs is not a comforting thought when routinely dropping the clutch at higher RPM's. I will probably remove it when I restore the car. Good luck, Don H.

[Don H.]

Re: 59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

Here are a couple of pictures of mine. Don H.

[R K.]

Re: 59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

I have attached three pictures of the shield. For one picture I put it loosely back in place - - not tightened up.

It was painted black but very rusty so I blasted it with some other frame parts.

I get a sense from the comments that this is NOT a factory piece so I will not be putting it back on.

Thanks,
Reggie

[Leif A.]

Re: 59 Corvette clutch/flywheel shield?

Definitely not factory...