Flywheel, I am confused

[robl110]

I have been doing research on flywheels for the last 2 days but I am still confused. I have a 90 LX with a vortech S-trim, 3:73 rear gears and its putting out 420 rwhp. I cruise in the car on nice weekends, it will probably never see a track. I have been informed that I need a 157 tooth 50oz imbalance flywheel. I was going to pick up a used ford racing aluminum fw for $70 but now I am wondering if I should go with a billet steel. I should also mention that with my current set up I have traction issues. I plan to put on some DR's this summer that should help.

Questions:
What does "imbalance" mean? I see plenty of flywheels for sale that are 50oz but only a few say they are imbalance.

Billet steel or aluminum for street use with some spirited driving on the back roads? I should mention that once my wife learns to drive a 5spd she may take the car out sometimes too.

Any recommendations on brands?

Thanks, Rob

 

[stykthyn]

go with a stock 50oz flywheel. There are basically two balances out there. 28 and 50. some of the earlier 302/351 assemblies ran off a 28oz flywheel and balancer. The 302HO uses the 50. It sounds like you are building a weekend cruiser so going aluminum if you can get it at a good price may not be bad, but if you are spending on a new unit a stock flywheel will do just fine at your power levels.

 

[SScott]

^Agreed^ "imbalance" is something you ride in when you get hurt real bad I think. =) I never understood why people use that word??? It really means "not in balance" or "out of balance". (I hope, I didnt Google it this time) =)

 

[BigmacK192]

^Agreed^ "imbalance" is something you ride in when you get hurt real bad I think. =) I never understood why people use that word??? It really means "not in balance" or "out of balance". (I hope, I didnt Google it this time) =)

That's the correct definition Scott. haha

 

[stykthyn]

imbalance refers to the offset of the weight used to balance the flywheel. Some engines were balanced internally requiring weights to the crankshaft and balancing by the motor builder were a must. production assemblys are designed to run the already balanced flywheel and balancer with the weights welded on from the factory.

 

[robl110]

The imbalance makes sence now. Basically all the .50oz are imbalance they just don't use that old term =)

I can pick up the ford racing aluminum one tonight for $70 but it still needs to be turned. I may give it a try.

 

[SScott]

Sounds like a pretty good deal

 

[robl110]

So I searched a few parts places and googled Ford Racing Aluminum flywheel and came up with zero. Did Ford Racing make an aluminum flywheel at one time?

Is there any other parts I should pick up before doing my new clutch disc and flywheel?
Like an ARP flywheel bolt kit and/or clutch pressure plate bolt and dowell pin kit.

Thanks, Rob

 

[SScott]

Here it is: Ford Racing Performance Parts - [Part Details]

 

[robl110]

Here it is: Ford Racing Performance Parts - [Part Details]

Of course I looked every where but the Ford Racing site

Thanks Scott!

 

[Mustang5L5]

I would be wearily of buying a used al flywheel. At the very least, before you buy it, call a few places and ask for cost to resurface it. Some places won't touch it and others may be expensive.

Inspect the flywheel to make sure it's not warped as well