Im under the impression that the 98 flexplates were stronger than the later years but still have the same part numbers of 99-02. So the only way to get a 98 flexplate is to find someone who has one laying around because at the dealer they are the same part numbers all the way from 98-02 and are the weaker ones?

 

correct.98 has round holes,99+ have peanut shaped holes.

 

98-00 have the round holes

 

the new plate is much stronger. Ran in anything from Tahoes to Vettes