[Nailhead2x4]

This is a vintage Schaefer aluminum flywheel, small block chev internally ballanced , 168 tooth , diameter less ring gear is 13 7/16" , center hole is 2.48" . It has markings on it Schaefer , Alcoa , 6PA-2 and 30 22008 .
Question : will this work safely on a 600 hp sbc ? I bought it used many years ago but never used it and a guy wants to buy it from me . I have no experience with them as too how much hp they can take . I believe Schaefer was good stuff back then ?? any info appreciated, Thanks.

 

[[email protected]]

The car will have to be set up correctly to use an aluminum flywheel. Most drag cars rely on a heavy wheel to get a good start.

Good for a big engine car with small tires. Or a high horse street car on regular tires.. Poor initial traction situations.

Schaefer wheels don't have an insert clutch surface as most others did. NO resurfacing of these wheels as the bonded friction coating is just a few thousandths thick. Friction surface had problems de-laminating under big torque/heat situations. Choose clutch disc carefully.

On another site, I detailed the problems that are to be expected with these aluminum wheel use. These wheels and the bonded aluminum pressure plates were big warranty headaches. Back in the day.

 

[AutoGear]

My God I haven't heard or seen one of these since 1988, and it was old back then. Cool stuff. As Bob said, you can't resurface it, and if its used, you'll want to check it very carefully before you use it. Additionally, since it can't be resurfaced, you'll also want to think about how much you plan on using your car.

Keep us posted.

PS My dad had one with a Zoom clutch back in 1968 and loved it. Put his car back together in the early 2000's and looked at a new Zoom clutch - less than impressed.

 

[Nailhead2x4]

......Thanks 4 the replies guys. Well I learned something, didnt know that this type of flywheel can not be refaced. Sounds like it should be just hung up in a museum. The machineing marks are still visable and some blemishes on the face no real groves, so I think it can still be used ok, BUT for how long if really put alot of horsepower to it ? Does anyone know if the laminate can be redone ? And if worn off will she start slipping big time or what will happen ? What type of clutch works best with this flywheel ? Thanks.

 

[vinniekq2]

you can buy light weight steel flywheels,dont use the aluminum. I bought a medium light weight steel flywheel,its 26 pounds

 

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Flywheel surface cannot be economically repaired/replaced. A one time only situation.

High heat/horsepower will destroy the surface. Then you get de-laminating, galling and smearing of the surface. Once the disc slips, the surface goes away fast! Been there.

Organic clutch materials only. Ceramic and/or metallic discs create less heat but will abrade the surface thru the coating.. Don't ask how I know...

 

[Nailhead2x4]

you can buy light weight steel flywheels,dont use the aluminum. I bought a medium light weight steel flywheel,its 26 pounds

.......This one weighs 11 3/4 lbs , thanks for suggestion.

 

[Nailhead2x4]

....Thanks BOBCRMAN for the info , I'll pass this on to the potential buyer. Looking at the surface I can't see any coating, must be pretty invisable stuff and it don't look like it was ever refaced. I'm still amazed they made something like this.

 

[lmsport]

For light weight and street use I would recommend steel. The old LS7 flywheel and the neutral balance flywheel for the 84-85 F-body weigh about 15 lbs. Both are available new from GM for about $200. I have raced these two in oval track cars for thousands of laps without an issue. For even lighter weight, I would go to a 7.25" or 5.5" clutch setup along with either a flexplate or special starter and 104 tooth flywheel.