07 engine removal confusion...

[Fscott4]

2007 4x4 king cab 4.0 removal for timing cassette replacement.
I cant determine how many bell housing bolts there are on this engine. Evidently there are 3 on the starter (I was able to get only one), I also was able to get the 2 bottom bolts as well as 2 of the side bolts. I am at a complete standstill and have NO IDEA how to proceed. I figured this would be a "no brainer" as I have removed engines in the past with no real issues. Both exhaust manifolds are now off too.

 

[SenorNoob]

You can see the pattern in this tech article:

https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/how-to-replace-a-m5od-r1-with-a-m5od-r1hd/#gsc.tab=0

 

[Fscott4]

Thanks SenorNoob!
I now know exactly where the other 4 bolts are that have been hiding!
I am trying to get this out without removing the transmission too and I hope that with the exhaust manifolds and intake manifold out of the way I can reach them from the engine compartment. Its been 20 years since I've removed an engine from a vehicle and i KNOW it wasnt like this I would love to NOT remove the heads in the truck cuz that looks like a bugger with with timing chains.
If I cant get to those bolts I am going to admit defeat.

 

[pjtoledo]

on my Rangers I get a real long extension and go over the top of the transmission for a couple bolts.

 

[SenorNoob]

Seconded. Long extensions are your friends.

I usually take the top 2 out laying across the intake. But I have an OHV and a much more open engine bay than most.

 

[JJMaine]

I used a top creeper and was easily able to reach the top bell housing bolts. Granted still a bit fiddly but not bad at all especially with the top creeper. Just take the manifold off first and get the wiring harness out of the way and you'll have decent access from the top.

 

[Roert42]

I prefer to take all the bolts off from down below. A combination of extensions and u joints will get you where an impact can bop ‘em off.

The top ones you can’t really see so you need to go by brail.

 

[Fscott4]

I gave up and took it to a local shop for a swap with a reman. When the new is installed I will put it back together, get the frame fluid filmed and drive it. I paid 800 for it and it's well worth a new engine.

 

[Fscott4]

Just too much of a ball buster for me

 

[Curious Hound]

Just too much of a ball buster for me

Some days, the best thing is being smart enough to know when you need help. I hope it goes well.