3.0 engine install, i have a question

[Wsewade]

I'm finally installing the fresh 3.0 in my ranger. After lining it up with the transmission, do I put the nuts on the torque converter through the flywheel first, or do i bolt the trans to the block, loosely, then turn the flywheel to align the TC bolts. I've looked all over the internet and threads, I couldn't find any info on this. Thanks for any response.

 

[Eddo Rogue]

The latter. Usually the the bellhousing is bolted to the block, then spin the torque converter/flywheel as needed to install the bolts. The T/C will spin easy, but you will probably want a flywheel tool or pry bar to spin the flywheel, or turn it with a breaker bar on the harmonic balancer bolt. Just make sure the T/C is filled and fully seated into the trans before installing.

 

[Wsewade]

Thanks, what I needed to know.

 

[pjtoledo]

I bolted the trans to the block first.
make sure the converter is seated and can move in the holes.
with the spark plugs removed it's easy to turn the engine over.
use the access hole on the pass side, extensions if you want to get the ratchet out by the front.

 

[mc17eln]

Yes, 6 bell housing bolts first (tighten to 41 lb-ft, the lowest bolt on both sides are longer than the other 4), then 4 torque converter nuts (tighten to 26 lb-ft). Notice the lighter torque spec for the T/C nuts. Don't over do it.