M Series bell-housing - Lower dust/inspection plate

[TimLedger]

I am about to put the engine back into my 3000M and I cannot find the lower inspection plate or dust cover that goes across the bottom of the bell-housing. I have the large plate covering top and sides of the bell-housing but there should be a smaller plate at the bottom.

Before everyone shouts "what an idiot!" for losing something in the garage, I am not at all sure that it was on there when I dismantled the car more than ten years ago. I have been pretty careful with the laid-up parts and have a vague memory of being surprised when I took it apart. Unfortunately none of my photos provide any real proof.

I would like to try to source a replacement if I can, so has anyone got a spare plate that I can purchase or suggestions as to where I might find one?

Alternatively, has anyone got any views, comments or inspired wisdom of managing without the plate?

As ever, many thanks in advance for any helpful comments.

Tim Ledger.

[phillpot]

TimLedger said:

Alternatively, has anyone got any views, comments or inspired wisdom of managing without the plate?

If car is for "hobby use" generally in good weather I'd say live without it. Or mock something up from a piece of Cornflake packet and cut one out of steel, alloy or stainless would be nice

[TimLedger]

Thank you both.

I feel much better now because the OE one certainly was not there if it was waxed card. I would have remembered that, for sure.

I have some steel sheet of a similar thickness to the upper large plate so I will be cutting the side out of a cereal box after breakfast tomorrow.

I really appreciate the quick and helpful responses.

[whitewolf]

I've seen them on ebay every now and again... But as others, just fabricate one.


It only has to 'do the job'. And won't be seen so literally a 'Plate' bolted on will do.

[Grantura MKI]

There is one just listed on flea-bay UK.

[Grantura MKI]

There is one just listed on flea-bay UK.