41 stock v8 flywheel question

[Veeder]

Stock flywheels had a ~2” high wall circling the pressure plate mounting area. Does anyone happen to know why they did this?

[cas3]

In the old days, most automotive engineers thought the heavy flywheel was a good thing for smooth running and low rpm torque.

[drolston]

Originally Posted by cas3

In the old days, most automotive engineers thought the heavy flywheel was a good thing for smooth running and low rpm torque.

And they were right, at least regarding smooth running. The angular momentum of a fly wheel is increased by having the weight concentrated further out the radius. You will note that flywheels on engines without clutches fastened to the flywheel are wheels with spokes and mass at the circumference.

The effect regarding torque is secondary and transient. The flywheel provides energy (torque x RPM) while the clutch is engaged and the throttle is opened for the engine to pick up the load. The flywheel is, in effect, a dampener on RPM changes. A good thing driving in traffic; a bad thing on a drag racer where the winner is the one who can get to max rpm the fastest.

[Kube]

Originally Posted by Veeder

Stock flywheels had a ~2” high wall circling the pressure plate mounting area. Does anyone happen to know why they did this?

Veeder,
I have removed the "bell" from each and every flywheel with ZERO negative effect.
Keep in mind, I do balance the flywheel after the "bell" has been removed the surface area ground.

All of the engines have been rebuilt bone stock.

[Veeder]

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Thks for all the great inf! Sorry for such a long delay on a thk you landed in the hospital for 4 days (unplanned vacation :-). ).
Anyways just about back to my cranky self.