Powertrain Drop is Done - lessons learned

[ekrupa2]

Yesterday was a long (but fun) day. All in all the drop went well. Definitely some lessons learned along the way. #1 – having the car on a hoist and the engine leveler on the engine hoist was a lifesaver. #2 – the metric fuel line was a major PIA. Spent about 2 hours of sanding the end to get the standard compression fitting on. We got it on and all turned out well. I am glad we decided to tackle that prior to the install other wise it would have been worse. #3 – I mounted the Olthoff mounts and pedestals to the engine prior to the drop…this caused some headaches as we couldn’t get the pedestals to line up to the frame mounts for anything. We were perplexed and I wondered if I had the mounts in wrong even though I double and triple checked. I decided to loosen all of the mounting bolts to no avail. I then loosened the two bolts that attach each wing to the block and like magic everything was good again. I am leaving everything loose to dry fit the headers and pipes, will shim if necessary, and then permanently tighten everything down. I am hoping when I tighten everything it will give me some more clearance on the passenger side as the alternator is about a ¼ - 1/8 of an inch from the inside wheel well.

Based on some advice from Craigayl the plan to take the shifter off worked great. Everything slipped in just right and I can get a right angle drill just above and start a perfect pilot hole for the 4” cut in the trans tunnel.

It’s a great feeling to see the SPF with a motor now. I am glad I decided to tackle the install myself as I am learning a ton about the car along the way. Special thanks to my good friend Don…for the use of the shop, guidance, and expertise.