59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

How do you identify a 59AB flywheel against an 8BA?

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

An 8BA has clutch bolts clear through the flywheel, the 59a And earlier has blind holes.
Martin.

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

Also, the flat type flywheel used from 1941-48 is roughly 7/8" thick compared to the 8BA type flywheel at about 5/8" thick.

Lonnie

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

Thanks Martin and Lonnie
What I'm especially looking for is if there is a actual difference in the ring gear that is used on these two flywheels and what is it? I know that they will bolt onto both engines, but the wrong one will hang up the starter drive.

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

The ring gears are different diameters, but it is the inside diameter that is different. The difference you are referring to is in the flywheel itself.

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

heres more : https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=187692

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

JSeery and cas3
The link that was posted makes it perfectly clear that there is a difference in the inside diameter of the ring gear on the 59AB and the 8BA. Now I see it. Thanks.

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

Here's a pic that may help to visualize all the good info above. Note especially the clutch holes drilled all the way thru on the 8BA wheel. Also, ring gear height comparison makes it clear why starters don't work well with late wheels on early blocks, or early wheels on late blocks. DD

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attach...2&d=1430414858

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

You can't install a ring gear on the wrong flywheel they don't interchange they don't fit each other due to sizing. Don't over think this.

R

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

That's a good picture for those that don't know what there looking for. Some people are looking for a flywheel but don't what there looing for. With that pic they can see the difference in the width of the ring gear. Once you've seen the difference you won't forget it. Walt

Re: 59AB vs 8BA flywheel
 

V8COOPMAN
That picture of the 59AB and 8BA sitting next to each other makes it even better to see the difference.

Walt
Some day I hope to meet you. Do you still attend the Gathering of the faithful in Mass? I was a friend of Paul Howard. He was a great guy and perfect gentleman. Jay