benefits of a mid plate

[prairiehotrodder]

I am considering putting a mid plate and a front motor plate in my 81 malibu with a BBC. I have the tranny out right now so it would be a good time to do the mid plate. What are the benefits of a mid plate? I was thinking of building my own and using 10 gage steel. The motor is currently mounted with moroso solid mounts in the stock position. Once i got the mid plate done and the tranny back in then i would buy an aluminum front plate and install it. Then get rid of the moroso mounts.
Brian

[Alaskaracer]

It eliminates the twist on acceleration. Be warned however, if you don't have a cage in the car, the frame can still twist and possibly break the mounts or the plates themselves. They will not cure a bad chassis. You also HAVE to run limiters to keep the engine and trans located front to back, as the plates can flex under the acceleration and weight of the engine/trans. A mount on the trans is NOT enough, and can break the case even if it's a rubber or poly mount. NEVER EVER use a solid trans mount in any application......

When you go to install it, you need to make sure your entire powertrain is properly aligned with the rear end as well. They are not just a bolt in part.

[prairiehotrodder]

Thanks Coloradoracer, my car has only a 6 point bar but it does currently have solid motor mounts. Should i stay away from the mid plate untill i have a cage with the bars going forward through the firewall?

[LCaverly]

Run a rear plate and a factory style side mount this allows the chassis to flex without introducing undue stress on the block. all the torque is absorbed at the bellhousing flange ,the strongest part of the block.
Len C