FLYWHEEL IDENTIFICATION

[JERSEY JOE]

Does anyone knoe the correct AMC part number for a 401 manual trans flywheel? I assume that the 360, 390 and 401's had different part numbers, and since they are externally balanced i assume that the counter weight is different on each.

[CROCKETTBOONE]

First off what makes you think you need a flywheel?

Secondly there is a ring gear that comes off the flywheel on manual trannys.

So if you need the ring gear all the parts store should need is a tooth count of the old ring gear.

When replacing the ring gear, heat the old gear a little with a propane torch and it will just slip off. If it dosen't then heat it some more. After the old ring gear is off, heat the new one a little. Do not use too much heat, just enought to let it slip on the flywheel. Then let the flywheel get cold to the touch, and go from there.:thumbsup:

[joe]

Yes the 401 does use a specific 401 flywheel. AMC p/n 321 2655.

[J10-401]

The 401 flywheel has a big ballancing "lump" on the back side. About the size of a stack of 10 quarters I'd say.

If you want a new one, you might consider a better forged one from McLeod instead of paying the high dealer price for a cast iron stock one - if still even available.

[joe]

They're still avail. If your parts house counter person(see I can be PC but it takes effort) can't translate AMC part numbers ask for a flywheel for a Rambler Matador a w/401.

[JERSEY JOE]

Thanks guys. Yes I have replace a ring gear before but I need to identify the 401 wheel from the others. I have collected about 8 different ones over the years and I never marked them. Consequently I have a bunch of unidentified wheels. Where is the part # stamped?

Is the Mc Leod wheel that much better than the stock one? Is it cast iron or alum? What's better for off road use?

[joe]

Is the Mc Leod wheel that much better than the stock one? Is it cast iron or alum? What's better for off road use?
Just my opinion but for crawlin the heavier the better. That little Jeep specific oddfire 225 V6 Buick that was factory in the 60's era CJ's had a really heavy flywheel on that little motor and in a light CJ baring carb/tire issues would near climb a tree. :)

[J10-401]

Steel is heavier and better for street and esp offroad. 30 pounds or so is about right -like the factory weight. They have light aluminum ones but that's only for circle track and road racers to shot out of corners a bit quicker on the the straight pieces. Factory pieces can come apart as they are cast iron :eek: Not likely under 6000-rpm though.

[robselina]

i think for offroad applications the heavier the flywheel the better. We spend so much time at low RPM it can help the engine from bogging down and stalling out.