Need your opinion on tranny swap

[bigsal]

I need an opinion.. and since there's lots of that around here, I know i'll get what I'm looking for. I have a 72 pig with an F motor and original 3 speed. I am converting to a four speed this summer and just about have all the parts. I've had the tranny and TC out a few times, so that's no biggie, but here's the question.

Should I pull the motor to do the swap to the four speed or just do it with the motor in the pig?

I will be taking out the bell housing, changing the clutch, the rear main seal (leaking) and probably surfacing the flywheel while i have it out.

I figured I'd just support the motor with a hoist while I change out the bell housing and not pull it out completely.

Is this the best way to approach this?

Cheers for the thoughts.

(By the way, I don't need advice on why I am going to this trouble with an F motor.. ha ha ha... I have my reasons.)

 

[nuclearlemon]

leave the motor in.

 

[crackedup]

When I was tearing down my 55, the back end of the engine sat on a transmission jack for a week before I could finish pulling the engine. Worked great without any issues. It was one of those Harbor Freight models that you use a ratchet to raise and lower. That way I didn't have to worry about leak down.

 

[nuclearlemon]

a ratchet strap from one side of the frame to the other under the oil pan works well also

 

[bigsal]

Both great ideas. I really like the ratchet strap. Thanks Ige.

 

[bogus one]

Both great ideas. I really like the ratchet strap. Thanks Ige.

Make sure it's a decent strap, not some cheap chinese crap. Also make sure you position it in a way that it can't slip off the back of the pan. The drain plug may prevent this, but something to think about.

 

[bigsal]

OK, cause these motors don't weigh much right.....

 

[bogus one]

Nah....

A few hundy, that's all

Just hold it up with your shoulder while you buddy swaps the tranny