I'm writing a paper for my Automatic Transmission class and my prof. wants us to find out why a flexplate is called a flexplate. I can't find any info on it, and I don't want to just guess and say "because it flexes."

Anyone know? Thanks guys.

Jed
89 Formula 350

 

Because it takes up any slight misalignment between the engine and the torque converter.

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"So many Mustangs, so little time..."
ICON Motorsports

 

The flexplate isn't solid like a flywheel. It has large holes drilled in it. This only allows a small portion of metal to join the inside section that's bolted to the crank and the outside section that the torque converter attaches to. Although you can't physically flex it, the engine and torque converter can. Race cars will use an SFI rated flex plate. This is made of thicker metal and won't flex or break as easily.

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87 IROC-Z Pro ET Bracket Race Car
383 stroker (carbed) with double hump cast iron heads and pump gas
461 Big Block installed and ready for the 2001 racing season

Best results before the 383 blew up
Best ET on a time slip: 11.857 altitude corrected to 11.163
Best MPH on a time slip: 117.87 altitude corrected to 126.10
Altitude corrected rear wheel HP based on power to weight ratio: 476.5
Best 60 foot: 1.662

Racing at 3500 feet elevation but most race days it's over 5000 feet density altitude!
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87 IROC bracket car, 91 454SS daily driver, 95 Homebuilt Harley