Windage tray

Discussion in 'Street/strip 400/430/455' started by '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl, Jun 11, 2020.

  1. '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl

    '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl Well-Known Member

    Hey everyone. I know there are varying consensuses on windage trays. I will have my oil pan replaced next week & it'll be a good opportunity to install my windage tray. My concern is the stock windage tray. I've read that it can crack, come loose, break from the bolts etc...

    I'd like windage control but am not sold on the stock set up. Do you guys have any recommendations on aftermarket windage trays or is stock solid enough. Mainly a street 455 mildly built with occasional track time.

    Let me know your opinions.

    Thanks,

    Kyle
     
  2. Thumper (aka greatscat)

    Thumper (aka greatscat) Well-Known Member

    Stock is fine,double check it for cracks and if useing ARP bolts rotate motor by hand after installing to make sure rod bolts aren't hitting.
     
  3. BQUICK

    BQUICK Gold Level Contributor

    I like to add a washer to the windage bolts to spread load and not gouge tray which helps prevent tray breakage.
    I had a motor with a flopping tray....sounded like motor was shot. Re-attached tray and 25yrs later still good.
     
  4. '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl

    '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl Well-Known Member

    Thanks guys.

    I believe the bolts are 1/4-20 but what is the length? 1/2” 3/4”? Also would you say blue or red Loctite?

    Kyle
     
  5. 1973gs

    1973gs Well-Known Member

    Read posts in race 400/430/455
     
  6. 436'd Skylark

    436'd Skylark Sweet Fancy Moses!!!!!


    The stock tray is nothing to be scared of. As mentioned make sure the rod bolts aren't hitting it and call it good. I've never heard or read its failure prone?
     
  7. ken betts

    ken betts Well-Known Member

    I have Had my windage tray crack. I have seen many others that were cracked. While at Kenne -Bell ( a long time ago) we would braze washers on the tray. I always use Loctite. I still use the stock tray on street engines.
     
  8. '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl

    '72 Skylark Custom 4bbl Well-Known Member

    Well I got some 1/4-20 grade 8 bolts(overkill I know), flat washers, & blue Loctite. Hopefully that will keep the cracking & coming loose at bay for a good long while.

    Kyle
     

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