Flex Plate Replacement Question

[FastFred]

I'm replacing the old and broke Hurth 630 Trans in my 89 340 Sedan Bridge and decided no matter how the Flex Plate looks its going to be replaced. I told my local dealer what wanted but when I opened the box it was not the normal plate with springs but a 6 point star shaped device which has rubber shock absorbers to dampen the loading from the transmission. Upon asking my Dealer what this is I was told this is the latest and greatest and I should use it. Its built by Centa a German Company and sells it though Crusader Marine so the big concern I have - will it work and be dependable??? Anyone using this in their Boat?? Sure looks different.

 

[480ces]

I don't have any hands on info for you...but if Crusader is involved I'd be tempted to trust it. Much more so than if it said Merc on the box!

 

[Air O'Nautical]

Replaced both of mine with them....so, far all good.
Mercruiser uses them on some engine too.

 

[Air O'Nautical]

Question, are both of your motors standard rotation?
I think they are made to work in one direction only..

 

[FastFred]

Both engines are standard rotation, glad to find someone who has used these plates. Did the bell housing fit or did you need to grind it. I heard some bell housings had to be reworked. Using this Plate was the noise and vibration reduced?

 

[Skybolt]

... Anyone using this in their Boat?? Sure looks different.

I ran into that exact same thing when I replaced them on my 340. I sent it back and re-ordered the one with the springs. The rubber would probably work, but for how many years? That was my thought.

 

[FastFred]

Air O'Nautical, interesting picture of the install. How many hours on the Centa Dampers? Thanks for the comments.

 

[Air O'Nautical]

Air O'Nautical, interesting picture of the install. How many hours on the Centa Dampers? Thanks for the comments.

I replaced them when I re-powered last year so, next to no hours on them yet.
Never heard of a gas powered boat flex plate failure....?
Seem smooth but, the old flex plates were fine to. I just wanted what I though was the best replacement parts and anytime you have easy access why not...

They fit without any modifications in my case.