Buy Nissan 720 Flywheel Shims

A flywheel shim, also known as a flywheel spacer or flywheel alignment shim, is a thin metal plate used in automotive and mechanical applications to adjust the position of a flywheel relative to the crankshaft or transmission components. By modifying the spacing, these shims ensure proper alignment and engagement between the flywheel and other critical parts, such as the starter motor and clutch assembly.

Flywheel shims serve an essential role in maintaining the correct distance between the flywheel and the starter or transmission components. When engine parts are replaced, resurfaced, or modified, slight variations can occur in the alignment of the flywheel. Using a flywheel adjustment shim helps to compensate for these differences, ensuring smooth operation. Proper alignment prevents excessive wear, reduces noise, and promotes efficient power transfer from the engine to the drivetrain.

Symptoms of improper flywheel spacing can include grinding noises during engine start-up, difficulty engaging the starter motor, premature wear on starter teeth, and unusual vibrations while driving. In manual transmissions, drivers might experience clutch slipping or inconsistent engagement. These issues often indicate that the flywheel is not correctly aligned, and installing a flywheel shim may resolve the problems.

When installing a flywheel shim, it's crucial to follow best practices to ensure optimal performance:

Thorough Inspection: Before installation, inspect the flywheel, clutch, and starter components for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn parts to prevent future issues.

Clean Mating Surfaces: Ensure all surfaces are clean and free of debris or oil. Contaminants can affect alignment and cause slippage.

Correct Shim Thickness: Select the appropriate shim thickness based on the manufacturer's specifications or measurements taken during disassembly.

Proper Torque Settings: Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the recommended settings. Over-tightening can warp components, while under-tightening may lead to loosening during operation.

Use of Thread Locker: Applying a thread-locking compound to bolts can prevent them from vibrating loose over time.

Professional Assistance: If unsure about the installation process, consult a professional mechanic to avoid potential damage.

Flywheel shims are used across various vehicle types, including cars, trucks, and performance vehicles. They are particularly common in situations where:

Engine Modifications: Alterations like engine swaps or upgrades can change the positioning of components, necessitating the use of shims.

Component Resurfacing: Machining the flywheel or clutch surfaces during repairs reduces their thickness, requiring a shim to maintain proper alignment.

Aftermarket Parts Installation: Installing performance parts might introduce slight discrepancies in fitment that shims can correct.

Ensuring the flywheel is correctly aligned with the crankshaft and transmission components is vital for several reasons:

Starter Longevity: Proper alignment prevents undue stress on the starter motor, reducing the risk of premature failure.

Clutch Performance: In manual transmissions, alignment affects clutch engagement and disengagement, impacting driving smoothness and control.

Transmission Health: Misalignment can lead to excessive wear on transmission input shafts and bearings.

Overall Vehicle Reliability: Addressing alignment issues with flywheel spacers contributes to the long-term reliability and efficiency of the vehicle.

By using flywheel shims where necessary, vehicle owners can maintain optimal performance, reduce the likelihood of costly repairs, and ensure a smoother driving experience.