What is the purpose of the taper on the crankshaft that matches the taper on the flywheel hub?

The taper on the crankshaft that matches the taper on the flywheel hub serves the critical function of securely fastening the flywheel to the crankshaft. This design creates a tight fit that prevents the flywheel from loosening during operation, which is essential for the engine's performance and safety. When the crankshaft rotates, the fitted taper handles the forces exerted on the flywheel, ensuring that it remains securely attached and operates in sync with the crankshaft.

In addition to providing secure mounting, taper fits also facilitate easier assembly and disassembly, as they can be aligned and removed without the need for clamping devices. This design is prevalent in many engine applications where reliability and performance are paramount.