What to do while engine is out
 

Hi All,

I have a 74 2.0 in amazing original condition with 40k miles.

I am going to replace the old York AC compressor with a more modern Seltec unit. I *think* it might be easiest to drop the engine. While it is out, what else does it make sense to attend to. Was thinking about the clutch (would prefer buying kit from PP but AA is far less expensive).

I see the engine drop article. Are there any videos on this? I do have a 4 post lift so imagine that would make it easier.

Cheers.

Mike

I don't recall any videos on the subject.

With a lift, you can unhook everything, then lower the car until the engine is resting on something at a comfortable height (Adjustable lift table? Rolling table?) then undo the mounting bolts and raise the car up off the drivetrain.

Look for leaks, many of them are easier to address with the engine out. Maybe pull the engine tin off to clean up the fins. A valve adjust on the bench is a whole lot easier than working around the suspension pickup points. Take a careful look at your suspension console and decide if it needs any work--they often rust from the inside out, so look closely. Check the "hell hole" for battery-acid-induced rot and correct as necessary. Replace the center tunnel fuel lines with stainless tubing, either made up by yourself or pre-bent from sources like Tangerine Racing. Replace the fuel filter. Think about the rear brake flex lines; it's a lot harder to remove them with the engine in.

Of course, the "while you're in there" thing can get totally out of control... ("Dirk Wright's disease".) So you have to know when enough is enough.

--DD