Bellhousing

[Vince D.]

Hello
I thought I posted this message earlier today but did not see it on the message board. I am new to this so maybe it is here and I just do not see it.

Anyway, my problem is this. I have swithched from a 10" clutch/153 tooth flywheel to a 11" clutch/168 tooth flywheel and the bellhousing will not clear the new set-up. I can use a bellhousing for the 11" clutch/168 tooth flywheel that was offered by Chevy with part number 3899621, 3872444, or 464697. The problem is I do not know if these bellhousings will fit in my 1964 coupe. It is a smallblock if that matters and everything is accesible as it is out of the vehicle. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Vince

[John H.]

Re: Bellhousing

Vince -

Yes, the "large" bellhousing will fit in your car; you'll also need a new starter.

[Vince D.]

Re: Bellhousing

John

that is good to know. Can you offer some guidance on which starter will work; is it as simple as using one that is intended for a 168 tooth flywheel?

Thanks again
Vince

[Joe L.]

Re: Bellhousing

Vince-----

You need a starter designed to work with a 168 tooth flywheel. Generally, these have a cast iron nose, although there are some that have cast iron noses that won't work for your application. Best bet: order a Delco #323-254 remanufactured starter and you'll have what will work perfectly. You can also cross-reference from this number if you want to go with other brands.

By the way, bellhousings marked 3899621 and 3872444 will work for you every time. However, not all bellhousings with the casting number 464697 will work. It depends upon the location of the ball stud tapping. If the tapping is on the UPPER side of the "elliptical" boss, then the bellhousing is a GM #3899621 finished part number and will work for your application. If the tapping is on the LOWER side of the boss, then it won't work for you.

[Vince D.]

Re: Bellhousing

Joe

I appreciate the good information and quick response. I will be a much more educated buyer because of it. I hope one day I can add to the message board with good information like this for others.

Vince

[Norris W.]

Re: Bellhousing

Years ago I changed a '63 340 horse convertible to 11"/168 tooth. There were some issues with the throttle linkage clearance on top of the bell housing for some reason and I had to grind on one of the ribs on the housing. I don't recall the reason, but I assume there's some difference in the shape of the tunnel in that area, or either the linkage was somehow different where it comes through.