Engine Removal - Big Problem - Please Advise

Site · 04-16-2004, 04:10 PM

This is the second engine I have dropped using the instructions found on Pelican. The first had no problems. This time has a big problem, though. I was following the instructions on how to drop your engine. Got to the end, the part where you loosen the engine bar bolts, and on one side the bolt head broke off clean below the engine brace. On the other side the bolt just keeps turning, like it's stripped. It seems that with one side stripped and the other side missing the bolt head, the engine would drop straight down. But, it's not. Any Suggestions?

skline · skline's Garage

Cut the side that is stripped off and then it should drop down. Replace the bolts when you put it back in the car. That is what I would do. I am just getting readyt o put mine back in and am using new bolts instead of old ones.

Site · 04-16-2004, 05:05 PM

"Cut the side that is stripped off and then it should drop down."
-I've figured out the problem on this side. The nut at the top of the mount was spinning. No need to cut it.

The bolt on the other side, the one that the head broke off from, is still a big problem. Without the head on the bolt, the engine mount bar should just slide down the shaft of the broken bolt, but it's not moving. Maybe it's frozen with rust. Has anyone else had this problem?

I would welcome more suggestions!

skline · skline's Garage

Ok, let me guess, you have a pre 73 model with the allen head bolts. Try a big hammer to break it loose. Once you get it out of there, you will be able to get the old bolt out. You could also remove the two small bolts that hold the mount in there. Mine is the later model so it is different. Good luck.

Dave Bell · 04-16-2004, 06:07 PM

You solved the spinning bolt problem...

The engine may not be coming straight down, and with that one bolt still it may be binding?

Tap the end of the bolt up with a punch to see if it moves... it is does it is not rusted on or binding....... if it doesn't budge pound it with a punch to knock it looseif its rust or reposition to drop at different angle if its binding....

Hope that helps.

skline · skline's Garage

Be sure to brace the engine with something so it does not drop on top of you. Good luck

Flormat · Flormat's Garage

I just went through the exact same thing. With the help of the Pelican board I was able remove the engine. If your bar is like mine, support the engine and remove the nuts on top of the mount. They are tough to get to but take your time and you'll get them off. Then the engine comes right down. I still haven't been able to remove the rusted bolts from the mount bar though. Propane torch does not seem to get hot enough.