I am following several builds of GT40 replicas using a SBF / ZF drive train and several builders have done a zero runout measurement when the bellhousing is bolted to the block, measuring both the center of the bellhousing to the crank and then parallel measurement between the bellhousing ZF surface to the flywheel. For those of you that have done ZF / clutch work, is this procedure something that is necessary on the Pantera drivetrain? Inquiring minds wondering here.
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There are no measurements needed when using the stock setup or something similar to stock. But on one of my Panteras, I have the McLeod hydraulic throw out bearing and it absolutely needs measurements similar to that. Taking the measurements seems complicated at first but it’s actually quite simple.
Just bolting everything together and assuming it's all okay is one approach that usually works and although not absolutely necessary, there can be advantages and peace of mind in a one time indexing of the bell housing to the crank. Ensuring the ZF input is centered and horizontal will all aid shifting and longevity of pilot bushing & ZF. There are offset dowels available if required and numerous YouTube generic videos on indexing a bell housing readily available.
Even on the stock setup one should set the clutch slave lever arm with 1/8" free play to avoid the throwout bearing riding on the clutch.
Thanks both of you. I am still trying to understand the process and after doing this the transmission is more accurately centered when nowhere in the process does it consider where the ZF mounting holes are drilled and how accurate they are to one another or the open hole in the bellhousing. Still confused after watching a few videos.
I bet most that have removed and replaced Pantera ZFs have never done this process. I know some of the old timers that worked on my car sure didn't and I wonder aloud if the factory did it?
