Surgery on front of engine in BT7

[BrianN]

I am considering replacing the front oil seal and at the same time the chain, sprockets, motor mounts, damper, and water pump.

Is this possible on a 29D engine while it is still in the car? I am figuring the grille and radiator have to come out to do this. Can the engine be raised enough to remove the pulley bolt with an impact wrench or some other method? Or does the engine have to come out of the car to do all of this?

Any advice is welcome.

 

[Keoke]

Yeah you can do that Brian .However you do not need to remove the Grill. But you must unbolt the motor mounts from the frame and Jack the engine up to get the Damper off the crank. The rest is a piece of cake.--Fwiw---Keoke

 

[gonzo]

Hi Brian, if you plan to upgrade to the high performance engine damper, then check clearance to frame cross member and plan to factor another ½ inch.

I believe the original Damper could be redisleeved to compensate for wear at the yolk where it contacts the front seal and, in theory, reduce oil seepage. This will not work on vein or screw-type Dampers which will be evident upon removal and/or when someone from the forum clarifies.

Good luck with the work and keep us posted on your success! (I'm also thinking about doing some Damper/Front Seal work, but concerned it may progress into an engine-out job!) GONZO

 

[Keoke]

Gonzo; Engine does not use Vein or screw type damper. If worn on the yoke a Redisleeve,Speed Ring, can be fitted available from BCS, Or directly sourced.---Keoke

 

[BrianN]

More questions:

What limits the lifting of the motor? The transmission cover? Can that be left in place and undisturbed?

And is there enough flex in the exhaust pipes to leave them attached when lifting the motor?

The engine has an aluminum sump. Does a good board across that supply enough support for lifting, or will the sump be damaged by the engine weight?

 

[Keoke]

HI Brian, Yes to all your questions. A solid board across the bottom of the sump while jacking is OK. Tranny cover does not have to be removed.Regarding the exhaust system however, you must have {FLEXIBLE} flex joints in place at the end of the down pipes,If in doubt disconnect the down pipes from the Manifolds.Additionally, it is only required that the engine be lifted just enough to remove the Damper.---Keoke

 

[BrianN]

Thanks for the help.

One last question: Will the damper come off behind the frame cross member, or does the engine have to be lifted enough for the damper to entirely clear above the cross member?

 

[Keoke]

HI Brian, the engine must be raised "just high enough" for the damper to clear the cross member.--Keoke