89 2.3 L Engine to Transmission bolt removal Stuck Need Help!

[RobinDutch]

Hello, I am changing Flywheel and cant remember exactly how to remove all the engine to transmission bolts?

So far, I have the bottom 2 out and one just above it on starter side housing.

This leaves 5 hard to reach bolts, I sort of remember having to remove the oil filer and possibly the radiator so that you can get long extension ratchet bars to go thru to bolts using universal type socket joint to another extension bar and then use a breaker bar to loosen?

Any suggestions on tricks and techniques would be greatly appreciated as this is my only truck to get to work with. Thank You.

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I deleted this same thread from the other sub-forum as two threads the same makes it difficult for people to know which they want/did answer.

As far as removing bolts, I've bought and used very long extensions [or put a bunch together] with a u-joint and short socket, breaker bar if needed from underneath. Others have said they can access the top bolts from the engine bay with wrenches.
Edit; I've never worked on the 4 cylinders so there may be better advice to follow.
Good luck,

Richard

 

[Mark_88]

Thanks Richard...I saw them both too and was about to reply to the one in the 4 banger section...

Good to keep all your eggs in Juan Basquet...

As for the top bolts...they can be reached from underneath...apparently...using a similar combo of swivels and extensions...can also be reached by removing the head but that is a different scenario...

 

[black_demon69]

become a contortionist LOL

air and impact if you have access otherwise just what others have suggested.

 

[Earl43P]

Allow the tail of the transmission to drop, then force it lower with a length of 2x4 as a lever. Be mindful that the front of the engine will rise so watch the fan/radiator and any AC lines, etc. If your exhaust attaches to the transmission crossmember, unbolt that too.

With the tail of the trans wedged lower, you can now reach the top bolts easily from underneath.

I've never needed anything more than a ratcheting box wrench to break them loose, then run them out with 1/4" drive ratchet and 13mm socket. You might need to use a longer box end wrench if they are very tight or a 3/8" drive ratchet/socket with a small cheater pipe added to lengthen the ratchet handle.

 

[caerickson28]

Literally just did this on my 2.9. Bottom bolts come out easily especially with air tools. Top driver side, I took out from the engine bay. Bottom passenger from underneath. All done with swivels and extensions