easiest way to access Flexplate.

[Redlined]

Been hearing a rattle from the engine compartment. Assumed it was a loose belt gaurd or heatshield. Doing the timing setup rebuild I discover its coming from the transmition, and getting worse, Im afraid the shop that did my rebuild last summer didn't torque the flexplate correctly when they replaced the torqueconverter, I know there here a little inspection window on top of the bell-housing but it isn't big enough to tighten the bolts. I jacked up the car but didn't spot an access plate underneigth.

IS there a way to get at the flex plate without removing the trans? REALLY dont want to entrust those bozos with my car again.

[mike-tracy]

That little port on the top side is indeed how you tighten the flex plate bolts to the torque converter when you reinstall the motor or tranny.

If you're talking about the torque plate bolts to the crank, then I don't think you can access those with the motor and tranny in the car.

[MikeyMeyagi]

you will have to remove a few obstructions, but you can tighten the 4 flex plate bolts thru the inspection window no problem.

[ericem]

You can do it by removing a few things and still possibly leave you pcv. I have done it multiple times its a very tight area though. I use this and a gearwrench with a hinge so you can use it at any angle.

http://www.harborfreight.com/sae-box-wr ... 65860.html

and

http://www.harborfreight.com/5-piece-fl ... 66087.html