trans mount bracket before or after engine install and frame on lift

[Bill Elliott]

Getting ready to drop the engine in this weekend, 427w with TKX. I know there's been a lot or yes and no on this subject . I guess my question is which is more difficult, putting the engine in with the trans bracket in place or putting the trans bracket in with the engine in place?

Also I have the frame on my lift, is it still easy enough to get the engine in with it just sitting level on my lift? I do have a 2 ton hoist with a good leveler on it.

Thanks for anyone's input .

Bill

[robmccon]

Bill, just did this with a 347/TKX and the trans mount already installed. Quite easy with the engine leveler and an extra set of hands. Unrelated tip: check for interference between the tab on the passenger side of the TKX and the ebrake mount in the transmission tunnel. Good luck!

[maclonchas]

Rob,

Thanks for that check. I just dropped my Forte 347/TKX this past weekend and was having a devil of a time looking at how to get to the fill port to know when I am topped off (ie 427 recommendation). A hacksaw and three minutes allowed me to slice that tab off.

Thanks
Bill

[CraigS]

I like doing the trans mount frame after the engine/trans is in. The tail of the trans has to come up over the 4inch cross tube so that will hold the trans from doing a wild tip down at the back w/o the mount frame. I stab the rear of the mount frame on top of the frame tabs, and then lever the front ends up and install a bolt and nut. You have a good mechanical advantage using the mount frame to push the trans up so it isn't hard at all.

[rich grsc]

AFTER, is easier

[BEAR-AvHistory]

+3 After

[phileas_fogg]

I installed my engine/transmission after installing the transmission mount bracket, and it was easy peasy for two of us.

Whatever sequence you use, be sure the transmission mount bracket fits onto the tabs the way you want it to BEFORE you get the engine/transmission assembly in the air. My bracket required some grinding at the forward tabs to fit between the 4" round tubes.


John

[rthomas98]

I also agree with after. made it much easier.

[Bill Elliott]

Thanks for all the replies after seems to be the winner