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FLEX CLAMP
The existing clamp tends to ‘migrate’ up the splined driveshaft, putting a constant pressure on the flexplate which in turn pushes the crankshaft into the main thrust bearing. If the clamp is not released on a regular basis (once a year) then the thrust face disintegrates and the crankshaft starts to eat into the main bearing engine web until heat from friction seizes the engine. Dramatic! The Ritech Systems flexclamp sits on the outside of the existing clamp and mechanically holds it so it cannot migrate. The existing clamp then does not need to be checked and released very year. Peace of mind.
DISCLAIMER
This product is intended to positively clamp the driveshaft to the existing clamp and should aid the prevention of the condition in which the shaft migrates back in the standard clamp and places constant forces on the flexplate and crankshaft thrust bearing. Such forces may have already damaged the engine in a way which would not be apparent unless the engine were to be stripped. It is advised that the flexplate tension be checked every year in any case.
Ritech Systems Ltd or any of our personnel shall not in any circumstances whatsoever be liable for any engine damage, personal injury or death caused by or arising out of the use of this flexplate clamp.
FITTING A RITECH FLEXCLAMP
Jack car and remove the cover under the flywheel.
Undo the cap head bolt of the existing clamp and release any tension in the flexclamp
This shows that the shaft has migrated and the flexclamp is already under great tension before releasing
Ensure all tension is released, Re-torque the bolt and fit half the clamp around the existing clamp, ensuring that the hardened ring fits around the end of the splined shoulder.
The end bolts and locknuts should be released at this time. Fit the other half of the clamp ensuring all bolt holes line up without forcing and fit the hex bolts and spring washers. Although it may be inconvenient having the heads of the bolts on opposite sides, it ensures complete balance when the clamp is fitted.
IMPORTANT The gap between the two halves should be constant. If it is not it is likely that the clamp has not been fitted at the end of the spline. If it is not possible to fit with an even gap it may be necessary to remove the cover plates under the back of the torque tube, remove the bung in the tube and release the gearbox end clamp bolt to allow the whole shaft to be moved forwards to the end of the notch in the spline – this extra 1-2mm will be sufficient.
Excessive force is NOT required to bolt the halves together, just correct location. You will have to rotate the engine to gain access to the bolts (use the teeth on the flywheel and ensure the engine is rotating clockwise (from front).
Once the two halves are bolted together the end bolts can be tightened by hand until they contact with the back of the clamp body. Then the locknuts can be tightened. The clamp will then stay in position and hold the shaft and existing clamp solidly.
