[DeTomaso] Fidanza Flywheel

[B. Seib]

I bought a Fidanza flywheel and found it disappointing in the fact that the
correct bolts for the Ford pressure plate couldn't be used. The stock
flywheel has a countersunk area at the top of each threaded hole. This
allows you to use the factory FORD type bolts with a short shoulder under
the head. That shoulder registers snug with the holes in the pp cover. The
Fidanza flywheel I got didn't have the countersunk area and the alternatives
are not great. You can use an non-shouldered CHEVY type bolt which leaves a
bunch of sloppy clearance and only the threaded portion of the bolts in the
pp holes because there is no shoulder. Or, you can countersink the holes
yourself, but in the aluminum Fidanza flywheel that will leave a
questionable depth of thread due to the lack of thickness where Fidanza
drills the holes. Others have said the CHEVY style bolts will work, but I
think it's very poor engineering to retain a pressure plate from rotating
back and forth on the flywheel that way. Centerforce flywheels have the
proper FORD style countersunk holes. I haven't had one, but I think the
other makes like Hays and Schaefer have the correct pp holes in their Ford
flywheels too. You get what you pay for.

Others may feel differently, but I wasn't happy with the Fidanza.

Barry




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Hello all. I am having a new engine built by Russ Fulp Racing in SoCal, and
was wondering if anyone has used a Fidanza flywheel in their Pantera? I had
a Fidanza flywheel in a Mustang previously, and was pleased with the quality
of their product.

I need to buy very soon, so please share your experiences to aid in my
lightweight, flywheel purchase.

Thank you!

Perry Lindsey