Converter bolts!!!!

November 30, 2020, 03:40 PM

Matrix

Converter bolts!!!!

Can someone tell me the secret to getting these darn threaded converter bolts in?!?! Its driving me nuts. First one goes in smooth as butter but the other two have given me fits. I have opened up the holes on the flywheel thinking they were off a bit from the converter bolt hole but still the same thing. It will start then it feels like its gonna cross thread. What to do next?

November 30, 2020, 03:46 PM

Goob

Usually there is one hole in the flexplate that is a little larger, you install that bolt first.

I'll assume you're leaving the first 2 bolts loose?

November 30, 2020, 04:00 PM

RPROGAS

I matched the flex plate bolt h0les to the converter prior to bolting the flex plate to the crank. Years ago I had encountered the same problem , that was the beginning of my anger issues, ended up pulling everything out, what fun. From that time on I matched them before bolting the flex plate to the crank.

Bob

November 30, 2020, 04:03 PM

Mike Rietow

quote:
Originally posted by Matrix:
Can someone tell me the secret to getting these darn threaded converter bolts in?!?! Its driving me nuts. First one goes in smooth as butter but the other two have given me fits. I have opened up the holes on the flywheel thinking they were off a bit from the converter bolt hole but still the same thing. It will start then it feels like its gonna cross thread. What to do next?

Anti-seize

November 30, 2020, 04:20 PM

jenavet

i find mine get pretty tight if there is any old lock tite either on the bolt threads or down in the threads of the coverter holes.ive even had to use a pick before and get all the old loctite out if its real crusty

November 30, 2020, 04:30 PM

1320racer

Never an issue with ATI flexplates I have used for the past 30 years

November 30, 2020, 04:31 PM

Curly1

If you are having trouble you may have to get them all started before you tighten any of them.
I do not like the idea of opening up holes unless you have no other choice. I want those holes fairly tight.

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November 30, 2020, 04:37 PM

Big Steve

Meziere flexplate, Abruzzi 10 inch bolt together converter. Bolts fit perfect I can thread all 6 bolts in by hand. Also because it is an aluminum cover I use anti seize on the threads

November 30, 2020, 04:37 PM

CURTIS REED

quote:
Originally posted by 1320racer:
Never an issue with ATI flexplates I have used for the past 30 years

I give you cra p about some stuff but I agree on the ATI flex plate. Just bought one and it’s a really nice piece.

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November 30, 2020, 04:39 PM

TOP38

quote:
Originally posted by Matrix:
Can someone tell me the secret to getting these darn threaded converter bolts in?!?! Its driving me nuts. First one goes in smooth as butter but the other two have given me fits. I have opened up the holes on the flywheel thinking they were off a bit from the converter bolt hole but still the same thing. It will start then it feels like its gonna cross thread. What to do next?

Besides cheap flex plate, leave the bolts a touch loose until you have them all in then tighten them.

November 30, 2020, 04:50 PM

1320racer

quote:
Originally posted by CURTIS REED:
quote:
Originally posted by 1320racer:
Never an issue with ATI flexplates I have used for the past 30 years

I give you cra p about some stuff but I agree on the ATI flex plate. Just bought one and it’s a really nice piece.

of course it's a really nice piece, compared to the cheap chinese junk you use. you should listen to my advice more.

November 30, 2020, 05:41 PM

fordracer9326

Ha. We can always count on Ed to throw off on somebody’s “Chinese junk”. I appreciate your bluntness Ed. Always makes for good entertainment.

November 30, 2020, 05:55 PM

ferndaleflyer

So says the man with a BIG BTE sticker on the side of his Firebird and if there is anything ATI its hidden

November 30, 2020, 06:12 PM

Matrix

Everything is new. Its an fti converter. Not sure of the flexplate. Id have to look at the build sheet again but thinking that is my issue. I can start the second one but it feels like its gonna cross thread smh. Im so frustrated

November 30, 2020, 06:45 PM

DragRaceResults

I'd also recommend antiseeze. It's more of an issue with the insert on the converter not the flexplate fit. I've had a few like that. I'd also recommend our NEW lock washers as I've already had a few come loose with regular lock washers.

They will NEVER come loose with these.

https://collectortethers.com/T...rs-6pk-4000-6100.htm

November 30, 2020, 06:54 PM

M120

I'm guessing that your tabs on the converter are threaded. Mine always used a nut and bolt.
If the tabs are threaded all the way through, I would try a tap from the transmission side if it will fit. Perhaps there's a burr in the first few threads.

Or you could throw it all away, call BTE and ask if they have ATIs phone number per 1320s recommendation for

November 30, 2020, 07:30 PM

SCDIV1

I have a Select converter and when built you can get it with threaded lugs or drilled thru. I chose drilled thru and use a bolt and locknut arrangement and always have.

If you have a good drill index, see what size the flexplate holes are now and go up from there slightly.

You usually can drill it from the engine side where the starter would go

Or get a better wheel.

My last 2 were JW and ATI and both are very good quality

November 30, 2020, 07:30 PM

1320racer

quote:
Originally posted by Matrix:
Its an fti converter.

there's your problem.

November 30, 2020, 07:35 PM

183N

quote:
Originally posted by M120:

Or you could throw it all away, call BTE and ask if they have ATIs phone number per 1320s recommendation for

That would be some phone call if the right guy answered the phone.

November 30, 2020, 07:35 PM

Bucky

quote:
Originally posted by DragRaceResults:
I'd also recommend antiseeze. It's more of an issue with the insert on the converter not the flexplate fit. I've had a few like that. I'd also recommend our NEW lock washers as I've already had a few come loose with regular lock washers.

They will NEVER come loose with these.

https://collectortethers.com/T...rs-6pk-4000-6100.htm

I have to say I have always had to locktite mine, or they come loose. Those must be some washers.
I'm also a through bolter with my current converter.