So I am having trouble getting the motor out of my 97' Jimmy, We have the bellhousing completely disconnected, torque converter bolts still connected (Seized in). We have the engine slid forward so the torque converter is disconnected from the tranny, but it still hits the bellhousing when we try to lift.

I need about 6-12 more inches of wiggle room forward because the oil pan is hitting on the front diff.

Can I remove the front diff itself without removing all the control arms and steering components?

If so, what is the procedure?

Thanks in advance.

 

To remove the front diff you will need to pull the CV axles, but you may not have to pull the steering center link, although it's easier to drop the diff if you do. You'll probably have to remove the driver side upper control arm to get to the bolt for the upper diff mount. The access hole is behind the upper control arm.

 

Thanks! Will look into it today. Air tools here i come haha

 

yea the sterring center link removed makes it a lot easier, and it seems that the CV axles do need to be removed to remove the diff...
wow what a PITA