Spider bellhousing cracked, why?

["Dean W. Cains" <dwc@domain.elided>]

Hi Group:

The bellhousing on my '74 Spider has cracked completely through in the area 
that the starter bolts to.  I've not seen such a crack before and wonder if 
this is a known failure mode for 115 bellhousings.

Some additional info:  The transmission is securely bolted to the 
bellhousing, which is in turn securely bolted to the engine.  Motor mounts 
are in good condition, with no noticeable sagging, but the rear 
transmission mount has seen better days and sags a bit.  Starter is 
securely bolted to the bellhousing, although I'm unsure if the proper 
shoulder bolt was used in the middle hole (I've never had the starter out 
of this car).  The other end of the starter is securely bolted to the 
bracket coming off the motor mount.  Lastly, before the failure, the 
starter worked well, with no unusual noises or grinding, and the 
Spica-injected engine always starts quickly on the first attempt.  The 
starter still operates normally, except that the pinion gear will no longer 
engage the ring gear on the flywheel.

So my question is, what is the likely cause of the failure?  My only guess 
is some previous abuse at the hands of a past owner or mechanic.  Any other 
ideas?


Regards,

Dean W. Cains
dwc@domain.elided

'74 Spider Veloce
Lutz, FL

--
to be removed from alfa, see /bin/digest-subs.cgi
or email "unsubscribe alfa" to majordomo@domain.elided