So I have a very busy schedule with 2 jobs, 2 kids, house, and in school full time. I need to know approximately how long it should take to swap a transmission for the first time? I have done manual transmission in my 95 TransAm many times, and consider that not too difficult, but I've never dealt with an auto trans, let alone a 4x4 with a transfer case. I have a scissor type trans jack rated at 450# for the lifting. I need to know how long to try to 'schedule' in my time for the swap as my free time is limited, and don't want to get stuck running out of time with it not finished.

Other than time, a few other questions:
- Would driving it up on wheel ramps get the truck high enough for the swap?
- Is a one-car garage enough room, or should I do it outside in the driveway? (more room)
- Remove transfer case first, or lower with the trans as one unit?
- Any other time saving tips/suggestions?

 

All the work is being done under the vehicle so one car garage is good , and the ramps should give you enough clearance to get the transmission in and out . And take the transfercase out by it self , then the tranny . The best tip I have to offer is a long extention to get at the bellhousing bolts , and don't forget to get the gasket for the transfer case when putting it back together . I put mine in by myself on a concrete floor when it was 10 degrees out with a worthless jack . Time wise I did mine in about 2 hours out and in . But it has been apart before , and If you don't have a body lift you will probably have to take the exgaust y pipe out .

 

If you've never done it before, plan on 1 full day at most. If you've done the T/A the Blazer should be no problem.

Let me rephrase that, if you've replaced all 8 spark plugs on a '95 T/A you'll have no problem doing the transmission. Hopefully you get that joke.

The front drive-shaft sticks like an SOB (depending on year), so be ready to deal with that. I'd at least try to get that out the day before since the vehicle is still operable without that.