Finally....the motor is in the car!

[bill]

Hey fellas.....
Finally got the motor in the car and it was not as hard as I thought. Getting the bolt holes to line up took some grunting and cussing but shes in there now! I wanted to install the motor and trans together, but the torque converter that I have is wrong for my th350. I have a larger one, out of a th400 that I have considered using....any thoughts? Any tips on installing the trans with the motor already in? The motor looks to be the right height but the fan looked like it might hit the hood, so i removed it. I may have to go with a flex fan or use an electric. Havent decided what to do in that area yet. The pass side manifold is REALLY tight near the foot well and Im a little concerned about heat issues, maybe gonna use a heat blanket or something. Heres some pics I took tonight.

 

[bill]

heres a few more pics.....

 

[Peter]

not really much for tips for putting the transmission in after the engine (because i have never personally installed that way) but im honestly surprised you didn't just wait for the torque convertor to make your life easier

looks good anyways good job

 

[pontiacgp]

I'd take the engine out and install the engine and transmission together...unless you have a lift its no fun working under a car trying to get a transmission in but if you really want to get a 2' extension with a wobbly 9/16 socket to get to the top bolts on the transmission

 

[bill]

not really much for tips for putting the transmission in after the engine (because i have never personally installed that way) but im honestly surprised you didn't just wait for the torque convertor to make your life easier

looks good anyways good job

Honestly, I was so tired of seeing the engine not in the car and I just figured that the trans could go in later and seeing the engine in the car was such a good feeling, even if I have to pull it out again. At least I know I can do it without too much trouble. Im normally very patient and practical, but this was one of those times where I got ahead of myself and regretted it later. IYO, should I use the th400 TC or just buy another one?

 

[Peter]

honestly i dont know enough about the torque convertors to give you a good opinion i know i left my 200r4 one alone but thats a different animal than the th 350 and 400's