Author Topic: Engine and trans install  (Read 5091 times)

69z28302

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Engine and trans install
« on: January 12, 2010, 12:55:55 AM »
I'm going to be installing the engine (SBC 302) and trans (M-21) in my 69 Camaro soon. The question I have is can this be done at one time? ( engine and trans together)

Thanks CRG

tmodel66

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Re: Engine and trans install
« Reply #1 on: January 12, 2010, 01:03:11 AM »
Yes very easy and my personal prefered way.
Daniel  
'69 SS 350/4 speed  Fathom Green--POP

runuts

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Re: Engine and trans install
« Reply #2 on: January 12, 2010, 04:58:30 AM »
I've enlisted the help of my non gearhead wife to do it. She works the hoist while I stand in the engine bay facing her. On the hoist I made an arrow with stop written on one end and down on the other end on the cylinder above the valve handle so there is no thinking involved.  We do practice runs so she gets the feel for the drop speed versus valve opening position. Just to add insurance I use moving blankets to cover all painted surfaces and a piece of thick cardboard taped to the trans tunnel. The hood is off, the radiator is out, the front wheels are off and the car is jacked up and on stands  just enough to let me slide under quickly.
Getting the angle of the dangle upon dropping is the most critical. As the hoist is moving foward, the engiine is dropping and foot pressure on the trans to send in into the tunnel needs to happen in a smooth motion. I put a flat cart at a position where when the trans contacts it it helps roll the trans rearward so you can stay up top guiding everything in.
Once in you can use a floor jack to slip under the trans, this might also determine how high the car needs to be raised so you can pump the handle. I put a piece of pipe insulation foam around the jack handle so as not to ding any paint. You can get this from any hardware store for a couple of bucks it comes in approx 4' lengths. 
Fun times with the wife.

69z28302

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Re: Engine and trans install
« Reply #3 on: January 13, 2010, 01:33:25 AM »
Thanks guys. That's what I need. Great detail

One question, can the shifter be on the trans when installing or is that asking for to much?

Mike

tmodel66

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Re: Engine and trans install
« Reply #4 on: January 13, 2010, 03:03:18 AM »
Thats asking way too much. NO shifter. One thing that will make this more easy and simple. Go to your local NAPA or big name parts house and buy an engine leveler. It goes on the chain on the lift and you can balance the engine by yourself. It actually tilts the engine for you and with a twist of the handle you can raise or lower the end of the transmission as you drop it in. One man operation if necessary.
Daniel  
'69 SS 350/4 speed  Fathom Green--POP

runuts

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Re: Engine and trans install
« Reply #5 on: January 13, 2010, 04:27:37 AM »
I forgot to mention the leveler which I also use but it seems while straddling the engine bay with your butt on the cowl blanket using a foot on the top of the trans sending into the tunnel helps.  I have also done it solo but I feel there is too much to watch as it's going in and it's always nice to celebrate with your compadre once your done. My goal is to not scratch any paint on either the engine or engine bay.
 There is at least one wire clip that needs to bolt to the bell housing, back up light maybe, I missed it and it caused me grief. I don't remember if I was able to bolt the exhaust manifolds to the engine or the head pipes and tie them out of the way. It seems when on the engine one  side hit something maybe the steering box. It's kinda tight on the distributor also, I think I pulled mine so I wouldn't damage it. Water pump stays on without fan attached. I also throw the front tires under the door rockers in case the car comes off the stands while you are under it they may leave enough room to escape.  I'm sure I've forgotten something so hopefully someone else will comment.