ford made aluminum and cast iron bellhousings for the 289's. i assume they are they same dimensions/distance from the motor to the trans (manual)? any help?
aluminum/cast iron bell housing
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I have only seen aluminum bell housings.
What vehicles had cast iron bells?
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- Official Post
The cast iron and aluminum bellhousings have the same motor to trans dimensions. Most cast iron bellhousings use the 164 tooth flywheel rather than the 157/160 tooth for the 289 Mustang and Falcon. This will also makes the block plate different between the two flywheel sizes.
-Fred-
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Never seen the cast iron ones in cars - except the COBRA scatter shield - rare and expensive.
The cast ones were used in trucks of that era - seen a bunch in older pick ups and large Ford trucks.
They pop up on ebay from time to time - and Fred is correct - they use the larger flywheel/clutch assembly.
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so is it safe to say this is a better bell to install if you are not looking to be 100% original?
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- Official Post
Bill, do you already have a cast iron one?
-Fred-
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yes i have one.
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- Official Post
The only advantage to the cast iron housing would be that you are less likely to strip any bolts. Make sure that you have the correct block plate.
-Fred-
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The larger flywheel (168/164 tooth) also takes a different starter motor.
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