Swap out the damaged or cracked flex plate in your 1994-1997 Ford 7.3L Powerstroke. A flex plate (or flexplate) is a metal disc used to connect the crankshaft of an engine to the torque converter and automatic transmission. The flex plate takes the place of the flywheel found in a standard manual transmission setup. Flex plates are generally much thinner and lighter than flywheels due to the smooth coupling action of the torque converter and the lack of a clutch surface. A flex plate typically consists of two parts; the flex-plate and the ring gear, fitted to the outside of it. The flex plate can become cracked over time causing it to wobble. Symptoms of a cracked flex plate can include a clunking or grinding noise while the engine is running. Cracks or failures can occur in a flex plate from an out of balance engine or torque converter as well as from bolts that were not properly torqued or in the correct sequence. The teeth on the ring gear can also wear or break off due to a bad starter, failure to use starter shims (where required), or engaging the starter while the engine is running. Noises while starting the engine can also be an indication of either a starter failure or broken teeth on your flex plate. Available in OE-replacement style steel or upgraded billet units that are SFI 29.1 certified. Shop all the top brands such as ATS Diesel, Sun Coast Converters, BD-Powers, Revmax, DPC, Diesel Site, Hays, Valair, and more!
