Flex plate question

[Mark Barnes]

Quick question- is a stock BB flex plate tough enough to handle say, 500hp/500 tq?
In other words, is there a known limit that should not be exceeded?
I'm sure I'll never be near it, but just checking to see if anyone has had any issues before I go and spend money unnecessarily. Been there too many times already.

 

[493 Mike]

I'm no engineer but, I think you will be fine. You might consider ARP converter bolts though, with Loctite (blue).
Mike

 

[Darter6]

Yeah, What Mike said. As long as you keep the bolts tight it will handle it.
Most that I saw crack was because of loose bolts.
Like you said chances are likely that you won't be near those numbers.
But I hope you do reach that goal.

 

[RemCharger]

I don't think a few bucks spent on a quality flex plate is a waste of money. A stock one will fold up like Swiss cheese in a competition car. If you never got on the loud peddle ,probably wouldn't matter

 

[HawkRod]

I'm no engineer but, I think you will be fine. You might consider ARP converter bolts though, with Loctite (blue).
Mike

I don't think a few bucks spent on a quality flex plate is a waste of money. A stock one will fold up like Swiss cheese in a competition car. If you never got on the loud peddle ,probably wouldn't matter

I agree with both! I believe, with Loctite, a stock flex plate will handle the power. BUT, if you have a few bucks, I'd upgrade to something stronger just to be sure.

 

[Mark Barnes]

I agree with both! I believe, with Loctite, a stock flex plate will handle the power. BUT, if you have a few bucks, I'd upgrade to something stronger just to be sure.

Well...I would guess the Mopar engineers designed their flexplate to handle at least the 330hp (or whatever) they claimed their motor made?
I was just checking...I bought a better flex plate anyway.

 

[oldkimmer]

It’s probably a 50 year old part. It deserves a rest. A performance 1 from 440 source is $38.00. Is ur car not worth the piece of mind? Kim

 

[Mark Barnes]

It’s probably a 50 year old part. It deserves a rest. A performance 1 from 440 source is $38.00. Is ur car not worth the piece of mind? Kim

Is ur car not worth the piece of mind?
It is. I actually bought a performance flex plate, but wondered if a NEW stock FP would be up to the task.

 

[66Satellite47]

I think it depends on which style of OEM flex plate you have. Early style that don't have the big openings in each leg might be OK, but why skimp. The $40 version like Source sells or similar would be worthwhile.