Double-thick flexplate? What are the tolerances?

[Broke4speed]

I know this might not get too many looks, but I need to ask a question regarding flexplate thicknesses and how much thicker it could get before mounting the converter/tranny becomes an issue. I have an early A404 flexplate that is required for a project of mine, and it is a bit thinner than the stock TD plate. I see the TD guys doubling up the centers, but what if someone were to have a whole new plate welded over the existing one? Obviously I'd do it on the side that meets the converter pads, but how far could I go before the converter refuses to mate up properly?

I guess the basic question is: If I were to take a second flexplate and have it welded on to the original one...would I still be able to mount everything properly? Hope someone can help .

[Broke4speed]

Yes, I know how forums work. Post goes up by semi-newbie, but doesn't garner any attention due to newbie status. No one likes a lurker/floater, and is too tired to help out because its supposedly been said before and I can use the search function. Well, the search in this forum-type is a little too general, and by typing in flexplate, I get links to threads involving car audio because someone who responded has the word 'flexplate' in their sig .

Oh I mean "anyone able to help" ?

[Mr. Stroker]

i dont think thats gonna work

sorry to rain of ur parade

[Broke4speed]

Oh its no rain, I'm trying to figure out a way to strengthen my current plate and if someone has some reasons why it won't work, or perhaps other options, then its research well done .

Why wouldn't it work? You have to see the A404 flexplate to understand what I am working against here, each of the converter mounting holes are in little cutouts. Its not a solid plate like the TD A413 one, and I've got to find a way to eliminate the large oval holes in the plate, as well as strengthen the center section. I figured that two plates welded into one might do it.

Next option would be to have a custom flexplate made.

[Turbofreak]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Broke4speed Oh its no rain, I'm trying to figure out a way to strengthen my current plate and if someone has some reasons why it won't work, or perhaps other options, then its research well done . Why wouldn't it work? You have to see the A404 flexplate to understand what I am working against here, each of the converter mounting holes are in little cutouts. Its not a solid plate like the TD A413 one, and I've got to find a way to eliminate the large oval holes in the plate, as well as strengthen the center section. I figured that two plates welded into one might do it. Next option would be to have a custom flexplate made.

I don't see why you couldn't make a laminate, double-thick flexplate by welding your 404 plate to a later model a413 plate, but you would have to use the earlier model flexplate to keep a 6 bolt crank flange pattern....

Weld around the edges where the 404 has the large oval holes in it by welding it to the solid 413 plate...

then just leave the cutouts in the same place on the 413 plate as the 404, and VOILA!!!! you have a nasty-spec race flexplate.....

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!
RYNO

[Broke4speed]

See, this is EXACTLY what I was looking for...I never thought of using an A413 plate . Its a bit bigger, but I am sure it could be altered to fit my purposes . It would also give me a bigger selection of plate cores for welding purposes, since the A404 plate is not exactly easy to come by anymore. I'll have to bring both to the machine shop

[Mr. Stroker]

ok on the a404 does the flex plate have the ring gear attached to it or the torque converter?

btw i have no clue what an a404 trans is

[Broke4speed]

The A404 is the auto box they used in the 78-81 Horizons and Omnis with the VW 1.7 motor in it. Its physically the same as the A413 but for the different bellhousing pattern. The flexplate has the ring gear on it, like its big brother, but used a three pad converter. It is also a shave smaller than the A413 plate, but I imagine it could be cut down to fit. Its a 6 bolt vs 8 bolt as well, all of which adds up to me putting a hybrid A404/A413 on my VW Jetta .

[Broke4speed]

Here's a shot of the A404 flexplate, for those wondering exactly what I am yammering about. Be glad you guys don't have to use this piece like I do...



Those stupid oval holes are what I'm trying to eliminate, as well as preventing any busted center sections later in my project's lifespan.

[Shel-Game]

The only problem I see is that if you double up the whole flex plate, it will be stiffer. And therefore less likely to flex. Which is what it's supposed to do in the first place (it is called a flex-plate afterall). If it ends up too stiff, it could cause the convertor to bind up on the input shaft.

[Broke4speed]

Hmm, yet another interesting angle....never thought of that. I suppose I am going to have to find the point between bend and break if I want it to last.

Makes me wonder why I don't just grab another TD for myself instead of trying something different :P .

[Turbofreak]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shel-Game The only problem I see is that if you double up the whole flex plate, it will be stiffer. And therefore less likely to flex. Which is what it's supposed to do in the first place (it is called a flex-plate afterall). If it ends up too stiff, it could cause the convertor to bind up on the input shaft.

I wouldn't worry too much about not being able to flex....

have you ever picked up a CSR race flexplate for a Chevy? They are very thick and have no flex in them.... they are like a lightened flywheel....

in fact, that is one reason they are so heavy is because it actually helps to launch the car harder because of the momentum in a heavier rotating mass...

Don't worry, be happy....

RYNO