Hopefully this week I will get a chance to work on the 72. Been away for 9 days and should get home late tomorrow. I have to finish replacing all the vacuum hose for the wipers and headlights then I should be ready for installing the engine. Not sure how much time I'm going to have this week but if not this week it will be next week. So heres my question, Should I put the engine in with the tranny (2004r) as one unit or is it going to be better doing them seperately. I have the radiator still out but I have never done one as a complete unit and I dont want to take any chances on scratching the paint trying to get clearance. I did put the radiator support back in for support so the front end wasnt hanging down so far. How much tilt do I need to get them both in as one unit? I will probably be working on this by myself as I dont want to worry about anyone else leaning over the fenders and scratching them. (probably do that on my own!)So tell me what your thoughts are on this. If I do them separately I will probably put the radiator in before the engine since I am using the electric fans.
Thanks for your thoughts and advice on this,
Rodney  rod75152011-08-13 13:40:28

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I've been a solitary kinda guy myself but I wouldn't want to try dropping that combo in without someone there to work the jack while I guide the heavy metal. Heck, a couple of fender covers will do wonders (as long as the engine doesn't come loose ) Good luck Rodney, and thanks for keeping us posted.

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Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again.

 
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Even with a helper, I would do them separately, but that is just my preference. Lots of guys here have done it as a combo, with no problems, so it's 6 one way, 1/2 dozen the other. If you are doing this solo, why take a chance? Doing the combo deal also requires you to be under the car to guide the trans, while at the same time lowering the engine. That's kinda hard to do...at least it is for me...but I'm lazy.
 You might get it all in with no problems, but....it only take one little boo-boo to ruin yer day.....

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Joel Adams
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"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"

Joel Adams, the voice of reason! I do agree, though. Both together is too much going on at one time for my liking. I would only do the other way with a crew and I still don't think I'd be comfortable! Good luck and make sure you only do it once! Jaws792011-08-13 18:47:10

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"Down on the Boardwalk...

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3 engines in n out and 2 trannys and I gotta tell ya, I wouldn't wanna try it.  Had help, a lift and a chain hoist and still wouldn't try to stab a combo.