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Spitfire Removing Transmission/Gearbox from underneath

Bona42na

Freshman Member
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Hello All, I am new to British Car Forum and this is my first post. I have a 1978 Spitfire and have seen many articles about removing the transmission from the inside of the car. My question is, Can the transmission/gearbox be taken out from underneath the car. I really don't want to remove the seats/rugs if I don't have to.
Thanks...
 
Short (and long) answer: No. Even if you pull the engine and gearbox as a unit from under the bonnet, you still have to be able to get to the rear mounts, the propeller shaft flange bolts, and the shift lever mechanism to get all that stuff out of the way...which really only can be done by removing carpeting, the "H" brace and the gearbox cover.
 
+1 to what Andy said.

The first time you pull the gearbox it might take more time than you expect. You'll learn so much from that experience that any subsequent removals will go much quicker. Regardless, it's not hard to pull the gearbox back and into the passenger compartment for removal. It is helpful to have an assistant when you physically pull the gearbox backwards and when you are ready to re-install the gearbox on the splines.
 
Thank you Andrew and Doug for that valuable info. Interior was just redone. Atleast now I can fully inspect the floor pans while the carpet is removed...
THANK YOU
 
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