TR2/3/3A Engine swap and Separating Trans from Block out of car?

[Kleykamp]

I'm removing the engine and trans. together this time. I have done just the trans on previous occasions but never both. I know what a b***ch it can be removing the trans from inside but, looking for tips on separating after they are out of the car and also putting back together before installing them back into the car. Also, looking for tips on what to hook to when lifting out the engine. Everything, including the head is off, so I'm basically pulling a short block with trans attached. Going back in, I will have the head and some of the other parts on the engine. I'm thinking the head studs might not be the best to attach to for lifting. Also think that might be why I have a cracked block...because a P/O lifted with the studs.

 

[CJD]

Yep, makes my hair stand up thinking about lifting with the studs. You can do it, but you have to use spacers to get the chain all the way down against the block and lock them tight, so there is absolutely no side load on the studs. I'd be more comfortable using mounting holes perpendicular to the angle of the chain...like bell housing bolts and front engine mounts.

For lifting, balance is the key.

 

[TomMull]

If the head is still available, why not just pop it on with an old gasket (I save everything) and use the lifting eyes? Tom

 

[TR3driver]

Or even without the gasket (which is what I have done). I don't bother with lifting eyes though (early cars didn't have them), just drop a chain link over the stud and thread a nut & washer down on it.

 

[TexasKnucklehead]

I have no "lifting eyes" and didn't bother to find some. I just used my nylon tow rope, wrapped around the engine a couple times, tight and lifted in out. Did the same thing to put it back in -but going back in, the body was off the frame so it was much simplified. One of those "chain levelers" are very useful when the body is there as you have to tilt the trans way down to get the engine in place. The gas pedal linkage will only flex so much until it bends. Theoritically, you could take the linkage apart and re-install after the engine is back in place, but the linkage will not go in (as one piece) once the engine is in place.

Nylon doesn't scratch the paint, but the engine/trans/mounts sure can.

 

[sp53]

Hey Tex I like the idea of the nylon strap. And I hear youon the gas pedal because I left it off once and freaked out, but I kept fiddling around with it and got back in somehow. Clay one thing you might consider is taking the motor mounts completely off the frame and not just the center nut out or the motor might bind. Moreover get the car high enough in the front so the tail shaft will clear the floor. Putting the Trans back on the engine is easy. Various size blocks of wood or a small scissor jack to level stuff out helps also.