Missing Plate?

[LuckyB50]

I recently acquired an 87 v10 with a 305 / SM465. I was crawling underneath and noticed something odd. I can see the teeth on the flywheel I think. The attached picture is taken facing the rear with the camera touching the starter motor. Should there be a plate there the previous owner didn't install? I see open threaded holes too. What is the part called if it's missing and where do I get it and how do I install it?

 

[CSFJ]

The piece you're missing is usually referred to as an inspection cover. Just a stamped piece of sheet metal to keep debris out of the flywheel. As far as ease of installation, I've seen some that just slide in and are secured with a couple bolts, and others that require removing the starter. I had the same truck 10 years or so ago, and i can't quite recall exactly how it's assembled. If you can get a look at a service manual, it should explain it in more detail, or even have a diagram.

 

[89Suburban]

Yeah it should just bolt right on, should be no big deal.