torque converter to flexplate issues

[Blue88Coupe]

It looks like i've run into some flex plate issues. The torque converter bosses are hitting on the starter ring before they connect to the flexplate. Mike was telling me that less than a 3/16th gap was acceptable, which it is less than that but im not sure if he knew it was going to bottom out on the ring before it hit the flex plate. I'll give him a call on Monday but I was wondering if maybe a fellow stanger had already ran into this issue.

[greenbullitt]

do the holes line up? grind the ears if so

[turbostang]

LOL, been there done that (using the Sonnex converter kit).

You most likely have to use the smaller bolt pattern since you obviously have the small flex plate. Having said that, you have to cut the big ear part off of the converter so it sits into the flexplate without hitting.

Before you cut, check the bolt pattern - you should have a 10" pattern, and the big patter on the converter should be 10.5"

[Blue88Coupe]

Thanks guys! Thats what i needed to hear but not what I wanted to hear. Pulling this transmission over and over is not my favorite part of racing cars. Luckily it looks like theres not going to be too much to grind off.

[Blue88Coupe]

do the holes line up? grind the ears if so

Yep the inside holes lined right up. I was feeling pretty unsure about grinding up a 700$ torque converter. But it fits right in there now.

[turbostang]

Those ears needed to disappear. They'd better be plenty clear of the ring gear!

[Blue88Coupe]

Those ears needed to disappear. They'd better be plenty clear of the ring gear!

the ring gear is .182" from the flexplate and the groves are cut .200" deep. and .100" from the inside of the ring to the top of the ear that isnt cut. I really really dont want to pull it back out till I have to re-stall it... But if its gotta be done

[turbostang]

As long as it's not hitting the flexplate any place other than where the bolts are at - it should be fine.