View Full Version : Aluminum or Steel Bell housing
P100DHG
03-02-2021, 08:07 PM
Okay so I’ve got a SBF 427 putting out about 560hp and about 550 ftlbs of torque. Am I insane for contemplating an aluminum bell housing? On my Daytona build I just defaulted to steel. I value my body parts so maybe that’s the answer. Advice and explanations about the differences would be awesome.
Thanks guys
Ian G
03-02-2021, 08:23 PM
I believe there is only one answer to this question, but I have seen what a clutch explosion will do. With that kind of power I wouldn't even ask the question.
cv2065
03-02-2021, 08:52 PM
I have an aluminum. If I were racing it would be steel. But cruising and doing my thing....Aluminum is just fine.
I ended up going with this QT steel from Mark Breeze on my 427, it does not require trimming on the bottom. I figured for $400 extra worth having some added protection just incase something went wrong.
https://www.breezeautomotive.com/shop/quick-time-steel-bellhousing-kit-302-351-to-t-5-tremec-tko/
Lickity-Split
03-02-2021, 09:14 PM
And every time you get in the car you'll feel better about having it. That's worth half the price right there.
mike223
03-02-2021, 10:16 PM
1: I value my body parts so maybe that’s the answer.
2: Advice and explanations about the differences would be awesome.
1- Yes - you answered your own question.
2- They're your knees, arteries, and major veins (within 3-12" of a great deal of rotating mass / energy) - get a (steel) scattershield (QuickTime is common), a "steel" (not "cast") flywheel (SFI compliant - because "cast" iron explodes just like "cast" aluminum has no chance what so ever of confining it), (SFI compliant) clutch + pressure plate, and a rev limiter.
The fact that you posed the question means you pretty much already suspected most of the answer(s).
When it comes to safety: if there is ever a doubt, there is no doubt. And don't forget an adequate driveshaft loop located 6" from the front u-joint and at the rear of the cockpit. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jRz2lD5NUo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8Kjuk6KXMA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jRz2lD5NUo)
CobraboyDR
03-03-2021, 08:04 AM
Get a steel scattershield/bell housing and your clutch and aluminum flywheel* will have nowhere to go.
*I love aluminum flywheels on these super-light sleds, love the throttle response...
BrewCityCobra
03-03-2021, 11:57 AM
I can only speak to my thought process but I choose to go with a QT steel bellhousing, like many here, for peace of mind and safety. I'll be tracking my vehicle (not sure if you will be) and the position of the clutch within the car and relative to the passengers just screams for extra protection. The only hold-back is cost but in the grand scheme of things I felt it was worth it.
Just my .02