Dead/C4 issue/flexplate?

[jms5580]

Now that I've moved I have a little time on my hands so I'm trying to get her back up and running. Awhile back she started running rough out on a drive, sounded like a lot of metal thrashing around. By the time I pulled into the drive it was worse. After I shut it down it would crank but didn't start, and it sounded almost like things were grinding. I strongly believe this isn't engine related. A buddy of mine mentioned a cracked flexplate when I described the issue. I just pulled the inspection plate the other day and didn't see much other than a chipped tooth. I did a little researched and it looks like most cracks form in a ring towards the center. My questions (before I attempt to pull the trans in a storage unit) are can you see far enough to the center from this inspection plate to see this crack and does this sound like a legitimate reason for my issue based on the limited info I provided? %)

 

[garberz]

I bought a 73' years ago, it had that same issue. The flex plate was cracked 2/3 the way around the crank. What ever your issue is, it sounds like it's gonna have to come apart. You can't see much while the trans is bolted up to the block, unfortunately.

Mark

 

[jms5580]

Figured as much, just needed a little convincing. I'll honestly be happy if it's the flexplate.

 

[spap]

On my first bronco a 76 I had the ring gear start to separate from the flex plate
After looking through the inspection plate and turning the motor off of the crank
I finally saw where is was coming apart.

 

[B RON CO]

Hi, you may get a better view by removing the starter. Also the flex plate / ring gear may move while the crankshaft stays still. Good luck

 

[pcf_mark]

Like B RON CO said removing the starter can give a much larger view of the flexplate situtation. I would pull the dipstick just to check for any nasty looking shiny stuff first. If the engine had an internal failure hate to see you pull the trans first.

Also do not leave out the alternator or waterpump bearing going bad - they make a horrific sounds.

 

[jms5580]

Well the truck doesn't even sputter when cranking so I'm thinking it's pretty major. I got the trans all unbolted and ready to drop. Had to pull the oil pan to get some of the torque converter nuts. All the rods looked good which was another concern. Decided to drop the tcase with the trans and it's a little more of a process...