Engine install with transmission

[Herb Concord Ca]

Hi, a friend just bought a Mitchell syncromesh transmission, he has a new engine on a stand ready to install. Our questions is: should we install the engine with the transmission attached as a unit OR install the transmission first and then install the engine. We will be using original motor mounts.

We have both removed and installed engines a few times but never with the transmission attached to it.

What are your suggestions, engine and transmission as a unit OR transmission first and then the engine?

Thanks,
Herb in Concord CA

[J Franklin]

Install as a unit, it is much easier as long as the radiator is removed.

[Joe K]

I have long thought that it is better done as a unit. Otherwise you end up with "pilot issues" assembling the transmission spline/pilot bearing and making it come together. Somewhat of a challenge even using a "pilot spline" (cut off tranny input shaft) to align the parts before assembly even while on an engine stand.

I usually mount both the brake and clutch pedals AFTER the engine is in place. And I put a plywood top on the transmission to keep dirt out and not have the gearshift.

Just less things to get tied up in the body/floorboard supports.

Joe K

[Synchro909]

If you instal them as a unit (I do!), you will still have an alignment issue, only at the universal rather than at the clutch.
Now for a word of warning, DO NOT put your fingers into the clams to align the drive shaft and universal. Once they line up, they can come together quite quickly, taking the ends of your fingers with them. I use long nosed pliers and screw drivers. It can be fiddley if things don't go right but I've still got my fingers.

[J Franklin]

Originally Posted by Synchro909

If you instal them as a unit (I do!), you will still have an alignment issue, only at the universal rather than at the clutch.
Now for a word of warning, DO NOT put your fingers into the clams to align the drive shaft and universal. Once they line up, they can come together quite quickly, taking the ends of your fingers with them. I use long nosed pliers and screw drivers. It can be fiddley if things don't go right but I've still got my fingers.

That is what a piece of fence board is used for in my garage. Just make sure it is finger width!

[Russ/40]

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I prefer putting the transmission in first. Its less cumbersome trying to get the u-joint all together, and easier to wiggle things around. With the inspection plate off the transmission, you can easily see what your doing to get the pilot shaft into the pilot bearing. Just seems easier for me. I do the early V8s the same way.

[goodcar]

Originally Posted by Synchro909

If you instal them as a unit (I do!), you will still have an alignment issue, only at the universal rather than at the clutch.
Now for a word of warning, DO NOT put your fingers into the clams to align the drive shaft and universal. Once they line up, they can come together quite quickly, taking the ends of your fingers with them. I use long nosed pliers and screw drivers. It can be fiddley if things don't go right but I've still got my fingers.

I agree with these suggestions. Additionally, I recommend using a frame spreader and making sure the transmission is in neutral--saves having to rock the car or turning the engine to make the alignment.

[Bill G]

Originally Posted by goodcar

I agree with these suggestions. Additionally, I recommend using a frame spreader and making sure the transmission is in neutral--saves having to rock the car or turning the engine to make the alignment.

It takes three people. One to hold the engine and transmission and two to twirl the car!

[Tom Wesenberg]

Like Russ, I prefer to do them separate, unless the body is off the frame.

[DD931]

Install the new tranny first. I have just finished watching the excellent DVD by Diablo A's on removing and replacing engines. They left the tranny in place and it seemed to go very well. I recommend this DVD to anyone contemplating the job (as I am). Even if you've done it before, there are some tips that I didn't know that will be very helpful.

[Herb Concord Ca]

Hi all, thanks for all your comments.
Goodcar yes we do have a frame spreader and with use it.
I think we will try installing the engine and transmission as one unit.

[Railcarmover]

There is less chance of cracking a flywheel housing doing them as a unit.