Corvette Flywheels and Flexplates

[Joe L.]

Here's an interesting bit of trivia that "popped into my head" the other day. Over all the years of its existence, Corvettes have used only 2 different size flywheels and flexplates----12-3/4", 153 tooth ring gear and 14", 168 tooth ring gear. However, it seems like GM could never "make up its mind" on which way to go. Consider:

C1------All 14", except 1962 with Powerglide

C2------All 12-3/4", except 66-67 L-36, L-68, L-71, L-72

C3------All 14", except 68 small block with manual trans, L-88/ZL-1 with manual trans, 70-72 ZR-1;

C4------All 12-3/4"

C5-----All 14"

C6-----I don't know yet. If the pattern holds true, though, it'll be back to 12-3/4". However, I expect it's 14" like C5.

Note: I made a slight correction to the above for C1. All C1 were 14" except 1962 with Powerglide. It used a 12-3/4" flexplate.

[Clem Z.]

Re: Corvette Flywheels and Flexplates

i would guess the 14" one would allow the starter to spin the engine over easier because of the deeper gear ration between the starter and flywheel. also the 14" would allow for smoother take offs with tall rear end gears. JMHO