Flexplate orientation

[Pewter02Camaro]

I am putting my motor toghether and I have reached the point of putting my flexplate back on. Is there a certain orientation that it needs to be placed in, it has a weight on one side does that corrispond to anything? Anybody that knows please help. Thanks a ton.

[Skinny]

Re: Flexplate orientation

The plate should have "ENGINE SIDE" marked on one side. Also in most cases the flexplate only lines up with the bolt holes one way. You'll usually see one hole on the crank that does not have any threads in it, and one extra hole in the flexplate. That one extra hole (if it's there) should line up with the extra hole in the crank.
If you can't find the "ENGINE SIDE" marking on the flexplate, you might also be able to find a mark near one of the torque converter bolt holes. It usually looks like a small round spray paint mark. That mark should be towards the engine. It is to mark the torque converter bolt hole that has no "extra" play in it. When bolting in the converter, you should start with this hole so the rest line up.

[Pewter02Camaro]

Re: Flexplate orientation

i suppose i should have been more specific. Does the orientation matter as to how it is installed degree wise like should the weight be in say a 1 0'clock position and so on...?

[ssms5411]

Re: Flexplate orientation

I think aslong as the right side is facing the engine it should just go right on.

[T-Mill]

Re: Flexplate orientation

I think aslong as the right side is facing the engine it should just go right on.

x2... that weight just balances the flexplate itself, that balance doesn't correspond to anything else...

[Skinny]

Re: Flexplate orientation

I believe the 3.8 is externally balanced, in which case, the flexplate is not neutrally balanced. Like I said in my previous reply, look for a hole in the crankshaft that doesn't have any threads in it and a corresponding "extra" hole in the flexplate. If it doesn't have one, then you will either find that the bolt holes only line up one way, or the orientation doesn't matter.

[cam98aro]

Re: Flexplate orientation

I believe the 3.8 is externally balanced, in which case, the flexplate is not neutrally balanced. Like I said in my previous reply, look for a hole in the crankshaft that doesn't have any threads in it and a corresponding "extra" hole in the flexplate. If it doesn't have one, then you will either find that the bolt holes only line up one way, or the orientation doesn't matter.

i agree, if the flexplate has a weight on it, the engine is most likely externally balanced, as i have never seen a flywheel that was balanced on an internal balanced engine.

the flexplate should only go on one way

[Pewter02Camaro]

Re: Flexplate orientation

i'll take a few pictures once i get home. Will also take a look at it again. Thanks guys :P