3vze Main bearing install

[patsyota]

Just joined the forum today! I got my 91 v6 4wd pickup a few weeks ago. It had a faint, but noticable knock so I decide to put in some rod and main bearings. I loosened the engine mounts, raised the engine, dropped the pan, swapped out the rod bearings, but cant seem the get the main girdle to come off?! Its a solid 1 peice unit like a honda, so I cant do one at a time.

I have a lot of experience with hondas, GMs, and recently subarus, but not much with toyotas or 4wd for that matter. Is there something Im forgetting? I have the 8 main cap bolts out, and can get it to rotate a little, but wont come out.

Any info would be GREATLY appreciated! Looking forward to getting this fixed and getting on to some modifications!

 

["N8"]

A photo of this would help out a lot.

 

[patsyota]

Ok. Ill get on that today!

 

[patsyota]

Well, I solved my own problem. Just figured I would give my solution any case anyone searches for this in the future.


Upon repositioning the truck for more clearance to take pictures, I could get a better view of the rear-end of the engine. Basically on this engine, the rear main seal housing has a lip on it that extends out maybe 1/4" that prevents the main girdle from lowering out of the block.

Rather than separate the engine and trans, pull the clutch/FW, and remove the rear main seal housing, I opted to grind that ***** off. Seriously. I believe the phrase "F*** IT" was used quite extensively. The engine has 220k miles, I loaned out my engine hoist, and I was ready to get this done.

NOTE: I do not recommend this to anyone! Even though Im positive Ill see no problems from this. I masked and covered everything and took my time, being careful not to knick anything or get shavings in my block.


Heres a shot of said lip.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3345/3669528750_62752df0e6.jpg?v=0

 

[2ndGenToyotaFan]

A man after my own heart! Welcome to Mud!!!!

Yes, that's the problem with changing the mains in that engine... Good for strength, bad for serviceability...