Engine Install

[DoneByDoug]

Guys,

How badly can I screw up a crate engine install if I do it myself? Give me your horror stories, please.

My building experience is limited to setting points in a mini bike, reworking a lawn mower engine, and screwing around with carbs on a snowmobile. I'm pretty technically inclined, like challenges, and am taking on this project in order to learn and take some pride in building it myself. However, for a first car project, this is an expensive experiment!

The KC full install package at $17k is an appealing offer. However, my original desire was to do the trans, bellhousing, and install myself.

Thanks to all for your advice on SB. It was all very helpful. I'm doing the ERA FIA and will opt for 351W package with hydraulic rollers so flat tappet break-in issues shouldn't be a problem.

Doug in Louisiana

[blykins]

You can do it. It's good experience and it will make you feel good that you've tried and learned something new. Just take your time and go for it.

[patrickt]

I might go so far as to say that it's hard to screw up the engine install, short of dropping it off the lift. Where you'll need to pay attention is the dialing-in of your bellhousing and installation of your clutch and trans. Take the extra time to get the alignment as close to perfect as you can.

[bobcowan]

It's really not that difficult. Take your time, move slow, and make sure things look right. If they don't look right to you, they probably are not. Everything should fit together pretty easily.

If you feel the need to break out a hammer, crow bar, or cheater bar - STOP. Something's not right.

[xlr8or]

Doug where are you located? Perhaps there are other Cobra owners nearby that could help?

[D&M2]

The closest I had every gotten to doing anything major with the engine, transmission, or rear end was changing the starter on my '66 Cyclone GT and that was a long time ago. Everything had already been in once to allow the motor mounts to be welded and then taken back out. Once the chassis was back from being powder coated, it took three of us but we were able to get the engine and transmission in in about 30 minutes maybe as much as 45 minutes but no longer. We found out earlier that any less than three of us was a little too light on the rear of the engine hoist and things tended to get a little tippy without someone on the back to keep it balanced. Of course, we probably could have extended the legs but limited room didn't really allow this.

All in all, I was surprised at how quickly things went. Just make sure you have a few extra friends just for the safety factor.

[The Dreamer]

My advice, create a detailed checklist. Very doable.

[RedSabre]

Stock up on some beer, invite the local club members over to supervise and/or help and do your research on the process so you have a good idea what goes first, second, etc. in place. Have all your required tools and parts available, then take your time. Would definitely have at least 1 helper around-minimum. You can do it and the rewards you get afterwards can't be measured. Good Luck.

Mike