SB Chevy 400 / T-5 ???
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Rochester Hills, MI
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Car: '91 Firebird
Engine: 408 SBC
Transmission: T5
SB Chevy 400 / T-5 ???
I’m planning on dropping a SB Chevy 400 into my ’91 Firebird this coming weekend. Currently, it is powered by a 305 TBI / T-5 combo. Due to limited funds, I’ll be keeping the stock T-5 for the time being. Though I would like to replace the clutch at this time with something more performance oriented. Unfortunately, the 400 came with a flexplate for an automatic transmission. I’m trying to make a list of parts that I will need to perform this swap.
I understand that the Chevy 400 requires a special flywheel, since it is externally balanced – that is about the extent of my knowledge – please help me out by answering some of the following questions:
All of the flywheels that I’ve found for the 400 are the 168-tooth variety and are made to mate with a 10.5” or 11” pressure plate. I remember reading something about the larger flexplate not fitting the stock bellhousing of the T-5 – is this true?
&
If the stock bellhousing is too small, will replacing it with an aftermarket piece (Lakewood for example) solve the problem? Will the aftermarket bolt right in with no clearance problems?
Thanks
I understand that the Chevy 400 requires a special flywheel, since it is externally balanced – that is about the extent of my knowledge – please help me out by answering some of the following questions:
All of the flywheels that I’ve found for the 400 are the 168-tooth variety and are made to mate with a 10.5” or 11” pressure plate. I remember reading something about the larger flexplate not fitting the stock bellhousing of the T-5 – is this true?
&
If the stock bellhousing is too small, will replacing it with an aftermarket piece (Lakewood for example) solve the problem? Will the aftermarket bolt right in with no clearance problems?
Thanks
#3
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Rochester Hills, MI
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Car: '91 Firebird
Engine: 408 SBC
Transmission: T5
Well, I just ordered a Lakewood Blowproof Bellhousing - a little pricey, but it'll give me some piece of mind, knowing that if I grenade my clutch, I shouldn't get injured in the process. I also ordered a Hayes Flywheel & Clutch Kit. I hope all this stuff arrives by Saturday!
#4
Try this...proven combo every Friday & Saturday nite @ your local Super late madel race motor with external balancing....
Sorry for the long links, hope they work.
Good luck...
For harder launches w/ sticky tires, you may want to go with your heavier stock F/W
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/produc...T0GXDBFPA825XC
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/produc...T0GXDBFPA825XC
Sorry for the long links, hope they work.
Good luck...
For harder launches w/ sticky tires, you may want to go with your heavier stock F/W
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/produc...T0GXDBFPA825XC
http://www.speedwaymotors.com/produc...T0GXDBFPA825XC
#5
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2002
Location: Rochester Hills, MI
Posts: 278
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Car: '91 Firebird
Engine: 408 SBC
Transmission: T5
Thanks MorgRS - You just saved me over $200 dollars. I called up Jeg's and canceled my order. Instead of buying a Chevy 400 flywheel, I'll just use that balancing plate (your 2nd link) on my stock flywheel.
Thanks again
Thanks again
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
88SS6SPEED
Engine/Drivetrain/Suspension Parts for Sale
7
11-11-2015 07:05 AM
84 TA NV
Firebirds for Sale
1
09-06-2015 08:02 PM
1Aauto
Sponsored Vendors
0
09-02-2015 01:35 PM