Just completed taking center measurements of my (existing GM) bellhousing. The set up took me a while because the dial indicator kept moving and giving me inconsistant results. Well after a couple of days fighting with it, I finally got it.

* Here are a few lessons learned: Make sure the magnetic base, flywheel and bell housing lip (where the measurement is taken) must be clean and smooth. Make sure all the magnetic base/dial indicator hardware is tight and does not move. Torque the bellhousing down to the engine block using all the bolts (it made a huge difference). A funny note: I forgot to remove the plastic covers from the spark plug holes the first time around...blew a few of them off when I turned the engine for the first time. I thought I broke the engine when I heard pops and little blue pieces flying around...

I knew I finally got it when I kept getting the same readings with a perfect return to the zero point.

Here are the readings I got .. Bottom was 0, top .012, starter side .004, pivot ball side .006

So according to the instructions (if I'm reading correctly) I should use .007 dowels with the offset pointing down with a slight deviation towards the starter side ?? Is this all or am I missing anything else?

Should I get just the standard offset dowels or the fancy type that are adjustable??? What would be(if any) the advantage of the fancy ones.

Any words of wisdom...

Thanks
Howard

 

Yes the .007" offset will get you right where you want to be.
When I did my measuring, I made a mounting fixture that bolts on using one of the flywheel crank bolts, and my dial gauge attaches to the top of that....works great, without unwanted movement.
I just used the standard (read cheap) offset dowels, and had to adjust them three times to get it right. Once you get it where you want, it should never need further adjustment unless you change something.


Oh ya....I forgot to mention that I got mine within the .005" that Tremec recommends

 

Thanks, The .005 is what I'm targeting. I figure on getting this right before I drop the body on the chassis. I like cheap! If it does the job, and all I have to do is a little more work...I'm there!

H