97 Engine Removal
 

Ok, started into this thing.

Engine is free hanging, except for tranny. tranny crossmember is down.

Bellhousing bolts out, and starter. Driveshaft disconnected.

Barely split the case, how can I get at the torque converter bolts? They seem to be in front. I've tried moving tranny/engine all around/screwdrivers for prying/ even used my air hammer a bit.

Help please!

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

If you have the aluminum oil pan with the full round bellhousing on the transmission, then the only way to get at the torque converter to flex plate bolts is through the starter hole.

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

Thanks. I wish haynes
woulda mentioned that.

I know its a tight space around the starter, any other tips to with this?

What's the easiest way to stop the engine?
A. crank bolt
B. Screwdriver on plate
C. hose blocking piston through spark plug hole
D other

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

I would never do something through the spark plug hole.

I would pull out one of the rubber plugs in the very bottom of the transmission bellhousing and stick a pry bar up through there to stop it. Should make it relatively easy to do using both hands.

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

Your suggestion sounds good, but the rubber hose stops the piston from reaching the top, and stops the crank. I've done it before-different vehicle though

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

pry bar through the small hole in the bottom of the bellhousing to lock the flexplate in place is the quickest and easiest.

Find my thread on Tranny removal in teh Self-Help section. I cover it pretty well.

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

Sorry, didn't mean to edit your post. I changed it back and added my comments here.

and what do you plan on doing if a chunk of that rubber hose shears off in the chamber?

RE: 97 Engine Removal
 

I was working with an old time mechanic, after about an hour off fighting with some torque converter bolts, he handed me a piece of hose, and told me that. It worked as my last resort.

But a piece breaking off, I guess I'd move to the rear end and kiss the truck good-bye...lol jk but ya know