Flywheel starter ring gear

[djburton]

The subject is a 184 tooth ring gear replacement on an original 390 flywheel.I have done a few of these on other flywheels but never a 390.So far I've heated the gear to 400 degrees in the oven.It almost goes but not quite.The flywheel OD is 14.250 and ring ID is 14.220.You would think at that temp it would expand enough to slide on but no.I now have the flywheel in the deep freeze but doubt that will help. Any ideas?  Thanks!

[jayb]

I've used a torch for that operation, going around and around the ring gear for a few minutes, until it will drop right on to the flywheel.  I used an acetylene torch, but I think a propane torch would work, although it would be slower.  Based on your experience I must have been getting it hotter than 400 degrees...

[My427stang]

I generally do them with a torch, and sit them on two or three jack stands so the heat isn't sucked away, although no idea what temp they end up.

If using mama's oven, maybe go to broil and bring it way up near the fire. 

Freezing the wheel will have far less effect, I don't even do it.  75 to 32 is a small change compared to 75 to 500

As far as right or wrong ring gear, maybe double check with the manufacturer, but I'd expect you can grow it much more with heat

[galaxiex]

I always used a oxy acetylene torch for that.
Drops right on.

[djburton]

Thanks,guys. Doing the torch deal today. Was informed that I can't use Mama's oven mitts on this process,however.

[djburton]

Success!! The jack stands were a great idea. Don't really need any more torch damage to the concrete shop floor.