Ok, since I have acquired an extra C3 backing plate with the parts trans I got, I started measuring stuff and tinkering - I can never leave shit alone (anyone else have this problem?). Since only 4 C3 frictions sucks (or does it?), I looked into modding the C3 backing plate to accept 6 full thickness stock clutches. What I have in mind is cutting down the apply face WITHOUT cutting into the 3 ears that support the return springs. After the face is cut down the appropriate amount, I would re cut the oil channel groove using a ball end mill (CNC mills are the shiznit 
). Thus, the plate would still work like stock, with the distance between the ears and the apply plate remaining the same as stock. The ring gear is splined all the way to the surface that contacts the 3 pads on the backing plate, and I have confirmed that I can indeed fit 6 stock thickness frictions and 5 stock thickness steels this way.
By concern is that the backing plate will be too thin and lose rigidity, coning upwards under apply pressure and not adequately supporting the clutches. In order to fit 2 extra frictions and steels requires ~.400" (I would need to do a stackup to get the precise amount) be removed from the backing plate. I don't remember the exact figure, but this would leave the backing plate only ~.210" thick - stock thickness is .610ish or so, which is nice and thick and RIGID.
The question is, is that TOO thin? Maybe it would be better to only knock .200" off and just run one extra friction and steel as a compromise? Or should I treat it like a sore pecker and not screw with it at all?
Keep in mind I do have an extra, so if I scrap it or it isn't workable I can easily revert to the stock 4 friction stackup. This is just something I would like to try IF it isn't going to excessively weaken the backing plate...
). Thus, the plate would still work like stock, with the distance between the ears and the apply plate remaining the same as stock. The ring gear is splined all the way to the surface that contacts the 3 pads on the backing plate, and I have confirmed that I can indeed fit 6 stock thickness frictions and 5 stock thickness steels this way.By concern is that the backing plate will be too thin and lose rigidity, coning upwards under apply pressure and not adequately supporting the clutches. In order to fit 2 extra frictions and steels requires ~.400" (I would need to do a stackup to get the precise amount) be removed from the backing plate. I don't remember the exact figure, but this would leave the backing plate only ~.210" thick - stock thickness is .610ish or so, which is nice and thick and RIGID.
The question is, is that TOO thin? Maybe it would be better to only knock .200" off and just run one extra friction and steel as a compromise? Or should I treat it like a sore pecker and not screw with it at all?
Keep in mind I do have an extra, so if I scrap it or it isn't workable I can easily revert to the stock 4 friction stackup. This is just something I would like to try IF it isn't going to excessively weaken the backing plate...
