I have an 85 FB 2.8 and am going to be replacing the clutch shortly and am wondering if someone could clarify this for me: one source I have read in preparation (Haynes shop manual) says that with the V6 you may not be able to reach the upper bellhousing bolts and have to cut a hole in the floor. This sounds bizarre to me, is this true???? While doing some other work recently I got under there to take a peek and can touch all the bolts (granted it is tight). Can you recommend the ideal tool(s) to get the top ones off??

Also, the clutch kit comes with clutch, pressure plate and release bearing. Should I worry about the pilot bearing??

This will be my first clutch job so are there any helpful hints or things I should look out for?

much thanks,
eddie.

 

cutting the floor????? WTF?????

just do us all a favor and buy some long extensions and swivels

also, dont forget to use a light

 

It's even easier than that... just get the top ones from above, with a short box end wrench.

 

first automatic i pulled out in my driveway, i used that method

second automatic i pulled out, i used the long extension, swivel, and a good light

i prefer the long extension way myself, but to each their own

 

from under the car, i used a long extension with a 5/8" (or whatever size bolt you have) universal.

 

thanks for the info guys to clear that up! I thought the cuttin' the floor thing was a bit out there, but who knows when you've never done it before and the manual suggests that.

thanks!

 

Um. you don't even really need long extenions. There are 4 bolts holding the transmission onto the bell housing. Remove the bolts and lift the transmission out - it isn't very heavy. then everything is quite east yo get to.
BTW if you don't have an impact wrench or a pair of vise grips go but one or the other.