ATP Parts Z-243 Automatic Transmission Flexplate

Automatic Transmission Flexplate for Ford and Lincoln

ATP Parts Z-243 is an automatic transmission flexplate built for vehicles that use a flex plate to connect the engine and transmission. It is made from high-quality steel with the correct bolt-hole spacing and ring gear teeth to match the original application, helping maintain proper starter engagement and torque converter fitment.

This flexplate is a direct replacement for select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury rear-wheel-drive applications, including Ford Crown Victoria, Thunderbird, Lincoln Town Car, and Mercury Grand Marquis models with 164 teeth.

Key Features

• Part number: Z-243
• Automatic transmission flexplate for engine-to-transmission connection
• 14.25 in. outside diameter
• 164 teeth for starter ring gear engagement
• 11.5 mm mounting hole diameter
• 12 pitch flywheel specification
• High-quality steel construction
• OE-style bolt-hole spacing and tooth pattern
• Not SFI approved and no SFI certification sticker included

Detailed Description

ATP Parts Z-243 is engineered for automatic transmission applications where the flexplate transfers rotational movement between the engine and torque converter while allowing for normal expansion as engine speed changes. Over time, repeated flexing can lead to cracking or shearing, and a damaged flexplate should be replaced rather than repaired. This replacement flexplate follows the original-style dimensions and tooth count to support proper starter engagement and drivetrain alignment in compatible Ford Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Car, and Mercury Grand Marquis applications. The part number Z-243 is also cross-referenced to AMS Automotive 4437 for the same application.

What It Helps Address

• Cracked flexplate material from fatigue over time
• Sheared or damaged ring gear teeth
• Starter engagement problems caused by worn teeth
• Torque converter connection issues from distorted mounting points
• Noise or vibration related to a failing flexplate

Installation Notes and Tips

Verify tooth count, outside diameter, and mounting-hole spacing before installation. Confirm the application matches the vehicle’s transmission and engine configuration, especially on 1991-1995 Lincoln Town Car, 1992-1995 Ford Crown Victoria, 1992-1995 Mercury Grand Marquis, 1994-1995 Ford Thunderbird, 1994-1995 Mercury Cougar, 1993-1994 Lincoln Mark VIII, and 1995 Lincoln Continental models listed for this part. Inspect the torque converter, starter drive, and related fasteners for wear or damage before installing the new flexplate.

Quality Assurance

ATP Parts manufactures this flexplate with steel construction and OE-style dimensions to support correct fit and long service life in the specified applications. The part is not SFI approved.