Plate between zf and 351c

OOOH, I had one when I seperated the two...problem is now I forgot what I did with it

I think you are talking about the thin sheet metal plate between the block and the front of the ZF Housing....

Isn't that a standard Ford plate that comes with all 351Cs? I would think so, since the ZH housing has to marry up to the "stock" holes in the engine block....

That's what I assumed, anyway.

I believe the plate is supposed to be there and is primarily for locating the starter. My machinist/engine builder and Ford motor sports tech concur. When looking to buy one I realized there are many to choose from. Some are universal with knockouts (like an electrical box). I found a company that sells a Cleveland specific plate. I'm traveling now and don't have the brand name with. The one I bought from them is good quality. If anyone is interested I will find the name and post it.
Mike

Plenty to choose from on eBay

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.htm...e+separator&_sacat=0

Since you are in Europe may be cheaper to make one from 16ga steel.

That part is properly called a block-protection plate, and its main function is to protect the rear of your increasingly rare 351-C block from flying debris from clutch and flywheel explosions. They are stock on all Ford engines of the period- some interchange among block types. Wrecking yards are full of them. A few aftermarket shops offer them in heat-treated 6061-aluminum for the weight-conscious owners (like me).

The one I purchased from Summit Racing is made by Scott Drake. Looks like a quality piece. There are many to choose from.

It might be a good idea to verify that you have a stock style 164 teeth flywheel. Since someone removed the plate they may have changed the flywheel too. You may have starter problems using a 351C plate with a 157 flywheel.