So now you go back to slightly larger counterweights, and very precise balancing to fix it.Īnother concern is the V8 configuration. Even though it's inherently balanced, engine builders like to say a flat-plane engine wants to saw itself in half. There are downsides to a flat-plane crank the biggest is vibrations. That's how rare it is to find a flat-plane crank in a production car. Besides Ferrari, the Shelby Mustang GT350 and GT350R use a plat-plane crank. If you've ever driven next to a Ferrari and noticed it sounds totally different than any other engine you've ever heard, most likely you've been listening to a flat-plane crank engine. The flat-plane crank has smaller counter weights, so it is much lighter. The flat-plane crank can come in different configurations, but the most common is Up-Down-Down-Up - exactly like two banks of 4-cylinder engines. Instead of rod journals positioned every 90-degrees, a flat-plane crank positions the rod journals every 180-degrees. Most importantly, cross-plane engines are very reliable and have that throaty V8 sound everybody knows and loves.Ī flat plane crank is different. A cross-plane runs very smooth and is easy to manufacture.

Because of the 90-degree positions, large counterweights are required to balance the crankshaft.

A cross-plane crank positions the rod journals every 90-degrees. We wanted it to get far enough along to ensure it would become a reality.Īlmost all V8's produced are built in a 'cross-plane' configuration. It's time to unveil a project we've mentioned here and there, but haven't been ready to talk about. Building your own flat-plane 'P65' engine

Flat plane crank firing order