I'm installing a s/b w/ a t-56 trans. Seems like it would be easier to install the engine and trans as one unit. I believe this is how they do it in the factory anyways. Was wondering if anybody has tried and what are the pitfalls?

 

You can, if you've got a hoist that will handle the weight of both.

 

I think it's easier. You'll have to tilt the tranny a lot to shoe horn it into the bay, so make sure you plug the tail so it doesn't leak fluid all over the place. Then put a jack around the tailshaft to hold the setup level, and bolt up the motor mounts. This way you can use the leverage at the tailshaft to line up the tranny crossmember bolts with the frame rails correctly.

 

I would install the trans later since it is a T56. If it were an auto I would install them together.

 

I would atleast bolt the clutch and bellhousing up with the motor out. Drop that in, and then install the trans last just like if you were doing a clutch swap. Then you wont have to mess with bell housing bolts and all, and you wont have to play houdini with the engine hoist trying to sneak it in... If you decide not to try putting it in all attached that is...

It can be done all together though...just takes the right heights, angles and patience.

Justin

 

When we installed teh LT1 and 4L60E into the 82, we had the *** of the car up for a better angle,


We also had one of thise arms that can change the angle of the item you are hoisting,