I am using a Wilcap adapter BH59A-350 adapter, to adapt a T5 to a 59AB flathead. This is my first time working on this so I am trying to gather all the info possible, before bolting all together and installing it in the car. As I was searching online, I found the below link using a similar adapter sold by Speedway https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/adapting-the-s-10-t5-transmission-to-the-59ab-ford-flathead I noticed they say to cut the counterweights off the pressure plate, as these might hit the inside of the bellhousing. Wilcap instructions don't make any mention of cutting these off. Other threads I have found don't make any mention of cutting these off... Anyone with experience, hopefully with same adapter, that can lead me on the right direction? Cut or not to cut? Thank you
Not sure of Wilcap’s adapter but on my Offenhauser I had the machine shop take a bit off the inside lip to alleviate any potential problems. From what I understand some pressure plate/adapter combinations may have issues. I decided not to screw around with the possibility of problems now or somewhere in the future and opted to simply give myself some extra clearance. I opted to machine the adapter rather than cutting off counterweights.
I believe the issue may be the difference between the Ford P.P. and the often required Merc P.P. If you're not doing a build including a balance job, cutting off the P.P. weights should not be something you just randomly do. A little machine shop work instead of back yard butcher work is money well spent.
Speedway Shows a Long 3 finger PP without the counter weights that will bolt on using the 10 inch holes. I assume it's foreign sourced.
11 5/8” dia. At top 10 3/4” dia at bottom 7/8” deep I got these measurements from a post here on the Hamb by “Hot Rod Pro” who regularly did this modification.
Thank you I saw that same post too. I think that's easiest route to go. I just dropped off the adaptor at the machine shop. I should have it back by mid week next week. Thank you all for your help
I had a hard time finding a machine shop willing to taper cut the adaptor with the given dimensions. I tried about 5 local machine shops, 4 of those turned me down right away, and only 1 was willing to try doing it but offered a straight cut for $250...didn't give me that feeling of confidence, so I walked away. Opted to do the 35 miles drive to Vellios in Lawndale. I have use them before for other things. They looked at it and didn't even hesitate. He knew what I needed and what it was for. Confidence!!! On another note, I read the CA30 pressure plate from NAPA would work but that part number is now retired, and it comes back to an air cleaner. Little more research the new part number is 360030 and suppose to work with the stock t-out bearing...maybe someone with the knowledge can confirm and it can help others https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=6083610&jsn=271
Did you remove the same amount noted above? Thank you for sharing. Makes me feel better I went this route.
It about the same as what the other guy did above. Not sure why the extra material was even there its a non essential area. Its about 3/4” wide there and was about 1/4 tall at the highest point. You could have sent it to me and I would have done it for you. Doesn’t take very long, just need a big machine.
I'd also like to know if this PP will work with a stock old Ford throwout bearing. It's a really good price from Rockauto, and way cheaper than some Centerforce PP's I've seen that are supposed to do the job.
Alchemy: It appears to have the correct bolt pattern. Depends on the pitch of the fingers and if the center hole is large enough for the early Ford bearing. Price is right.
Happy ending to this story. I got the adapter back from Vellios yesterday, and they did an awesome job with it. Followed the clearance amount provided above and it gave plenty of clearance to the counterweights. Best part, they only charged me $75...huge difference from the first machine shop that was asking $250 Thank you all. I appreciated everyone's feedback!
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