Back in my drag racing days (way back) I saw what an expoding clutch or flywheel could do.
The first bell housing covers were crude, but a lot better than nothing. My first one was a curved piece of 3/8" steel bolted on top of my bell housing. Better than a piece of tire, though. I've been a Lakewood enthusiast since the sixties. When I installed my Shelby motor one of their bell housings was a no brainer. If you don't have one on your Cobra, consider adding one of the best safety features you can to your machine. Scott, I hope you now have a Lakewood on your monster
motor! Rich