Aluminum flywheel for BBC/T-56?
 

In disassembling my Camaro driveline for engine work, I discovered a massive steel flywheel that I would like to replace with an aluminum one. The current clutch package is Centerforce, including the flywheel. The p plate has a few heat marks, but is probably ok to reuse as a new plate & disc is about $700 from Summit. A new disc only is about $200. The flywheel also has some heat stress, but no surface cracks. I could probably have that lightly surfaces & re-use that too, BUT, I would really like to get that 40 (or so) pound rotating mass lightened up. Center force does not offer an aluminum wheel for the BBC/ T-56 combo.
Does anyone know of a mfr that does?

'The clutch is an 11" setup and I believe the engine is internally balanced.

Thanks in advance for any help on this.

Bill

We recently got one for a 598 BBC with a T56 Magnum from American Powertrain.

-Dale

Thanks Dale! I'll call them tomorrow.

Which T56 are you going to use? I have a T56 Magnum behind a 1st Gen SBC and I just installed a standard 168 tooth flywheel. I switched to an 18# steel flywheel from a 40# and the improvement in response was very dramatic. If you are looking to buy a new flywheel anyway take a look at the DYAD DS dual disk clutch from Centerforce. The DYAD includes a special flywheel as part of the clutch kit.

Thanks for the advice Steve. I can't spend the $1500-1800 for the DYAD package, even though it is a killer way to go.

I ran a McLeod 14 or 15 lb behind my 489. The low end torque made the drivability OK. The lighter flywheel will make your trans more prone to missed shifts and the car bucking at higher rpms than a steel wheel. I liked it except for the shifting part. With a t56, you should be ok.

I had a Alu flywheel in my ls2 with a t56 and it took some getting used to so asto not stall the car when starting out but MAN would it rev fast. I found no problems shifting, Perhaps Todd just isn't good at it :ohsnap:
and no bucking.............. I won't ever put a steel flywheel in again.

Have you considered finding a billet steel flywheel? It should be much lighter than 40# but not as light as AL.

:underchair: No comment.... but as my mother would say "I'm sure Todd is an EXCELLENT driver".

I have been told billet steel is not available for my pull type setup (at least by APS & Centerforce).
APS DOES have an aluminum 'wheel that comes in at 20# at $479.

I weighed my current one at 36#. I am convinced some of that needs to come off. At the price, I think the aluminum one is the way to go.

I also think I will reuse my current disc as it has worn only .015" from new. And at $500ish for a new plate/ bearing, I will probably just re-use that as well.

Thanks for the suggestions!

Bill