What is the easiest way to install a throwout bearing

[v8nut]

I need to replace the throwout bearing in my 1939 Convertible Sedan. What is the easiest way. Pull the engine or pull the rearend and the transmission??? Jim in San Jose

[ford38v8]

I'd rather not mess with a good running engine set up, electrics and cooling, not to mention risk to body and paint. Get it up on a good set of jack stands and git er dun.

[48fordnut]

The above answer.

[scicala]

Very descriptive.

Sal

[Paul Dobbin]

From underneath. Pull rearend & transmission. It's only hard the first time.
Once you've done it it gets easier. (Had mine out 3 times in a row before I was satisfied with the transmission)

[woodiewagon46]

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Unanimous, drop the rear. I find it a lot easier.

[Straightpipes]

I pull the engine and transmission. Now I can properly check the flywheel surface, put a new clutch and pressure plate in there. Maybe a new pilot bushing. Get it all lined up properly so you can actually see what is going on. Good time to replace motor mount rubber annd clean up the engine room.

[slowforty]

Replace the flex line to the torque tube with one that is longer. Then you do not have to bleed the brakes,next time.

[v8nut]

Thanks guys. Second question. Do you drop the transmission down or pull it up through the floor boards or can you just pull it back far enough to replace the throwout bearing? Jim

[Mart]

^^ Of the above three choices, one is a no-go. The trans wont drop out from below.

Mart.

[Talkwrench]

Originally Posted by slowforty

Replace the flex line to the torque tube with one that is longer. Then you do not have to bleed the brakes,next time.

Good tip. I'll look into this next time.

[Capsacto]

My 37's throwout bearing seized. So I'm in middle of this exact same job. I figured since I had to drop the rearend and pull the tranny I would also fit a new clutch, pressure plate and pilot bearing. And since the tranny never shifted correctly in the two years I've owned the car I decided to open it up and check it out. Well it needs a complete rebuild. Thankfully the flywheel is in great condition. I've been working with Mac VanPelt for parts and advice. The bottom line is, if you're this deep into it check everthing else out. And, get the best parts you can get. VanPelt's is the best source.

[Bored&Stroked]

I used to lay on my back and struggle with removing rear-ends and all that jazz . . . finally got smart and I just remove the engine and trans all in one go. I've found it a LOT easier to setup the flywheel, clutch, pilot bushing and throwout bearing with everything mounted on an engine stand (using an exhaust bolt side mount). You can rotate the engine so the flywheel is horizontal to the floor, easily bolt on all the parts - test fit the transmission . . . everything. I then install everything back into the car - all bolted together. This is probably the only way I'll do it from now on . . . easier on me, better working conditions for assembly and potentially better results (as all test fitting was done out of the car). Also, if you need to re-surface the flywheel and/or have the flywheel and clutch balanced - then you'll need it all out anyway.

Just my take . . .

B&S

[19Fordy]

If your only going to install a throwout bearing, pull the rear.

Now I know why they used to have a "pit" dug into the garage floor instead of
a lift. Made pulling the rear a lot easier.

[chap52]

If you can do it from the top, I would. Just did my truck but it's a 52. I modified my engine hoist to lift it out through the passenger door. Made it easy for my 71 year old back.
Definitely change out that clutch and pressure plate while your there. Might take a close look at flywheel surface, bushing and ring gear and if any doubts deal with them also. A little of that emery paper on the flywheel to shine it up, replace that pilot bushing with a new "bearing" and if need be replace that ring gear. Van Pelt has the clutch parts and I believe that C&G has the ring gear.
Make sure that the new bearing slides very smoothly on the shaft before reinstalling. A little emery paper can save a lot of frustration. Don't ask me how I know ;+( (Pulled it 3 times)

[slowforty]

You have to turn the trans to the right to get it to move all the way back. This is what I ad to do on my 40.

[slowforty]

I forgot I also took the front seat out for more room. But I dont know about a Convertible Sedan.

[v8nut]

Thanks guys for all the input. I will let you know how it turns out. Jim