Clearance issue removing clip from disconnect on hydraulic clutch line

[misterW]

Anybody run into this? I have a 1991 3.0. I have had a variety of 2nd generation 2.3s and dropped transmissions every few months it seemed, and I thought the hydraulic line fitting with the clip worked fine (at least compared to the one they used to have where you pushed down the white plastic collar). Generally went on and off quite easily in a matter of seconds.

Went to remove the transmission of this 3.0 and see that the disconnect seems a bit further inside the access hole than I remember. Then I start taking it off and WTF? The clip is literally at the same level as the edge of the hole (which is smaller than I remember), which obstructs the clip and prevents it from being slid off. Tried rotating the fitting around to slide the clip in the other direction where there is a tiny bit more room, but it does not want to turn. I"m giving it one more shot, then taking the master cylinder off with it, I guess. If it protruded from the hole just a quarter of an inch more, it would be totally fine.

Have any of you run into this? LIke I said, this is my first time doing this with a 3.0 and I am curious: Is this typical? Or hopefully some older slave cylinder is installed that they made with a longer tube after many complaints?

 

[Shran]

They went to the clip style somewhere around then... I have run into the same thing. Usually can get it out with a screwdriver or something, pry it sideways. I don't know what was wrong with the plastic collar style.

 

[Eddo Rogue]

My most Ive come across the clip is broken or missing. I make a new clip to ideal dimension cutting and rolling a piece of beer can

 

[Guanfy]

I have a '94 3.0 and in my case there was no freaking way I was getting it off with a screwdriver. It turned out though I had the correct disconnect tool for it because of working on pex plumbing for my house. My house uses .75 inch plumbing so that is the tool I bought. My suggestion is to go to your local hardware store and buy the same disconnect tool I did. You can get it off in a few seconds with the right tool

 

[misterW]

I'll have to post a pic. The issue isn't need of a special tool. the clip would come off easily but it is practically inside the bell housing.

 

[RobbieD]

I've done a '90 2.9 and a '94 4.0 within the last year, and didn't run into this that bad. I remember one was kind of tight, but just had to be "persuaded" a little to get the clip to clear. Never done a 3.0, though.