Almost done pulling the engine out of the compartment on the 85', all that is left to do (based on past experiences) is lift the heavy lil bugger out. But this is attached to an A40D auto transmission. All bellhousing and motor mount bolts are out, there is nothing holding this engine in from coming out unless......something has to be done with the torque converter?? Everything Ive read so far says to either pull the trans with engine (BS..) or that you have to unbolt the 6 fasteners from the torque converter via the access cover on the front of the bellhousing. Problem is, if this is true...I'm screwed. Then engine is locked up and wont turn...meaning I have access to ONE of the 6 torque converter bolts. Anyone care to offer any insight before I go hog wild on the beast this evening? Heck, crane is already in position and attached...all that should be left is to lift. Spanx in advance for any insight.

~Darin <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" />

If I remember correctly, I had to remove those bolts from the torque converter to pull the auto on my 85 4runner. I think those bolts attached the TC to the starter wheel. Hopefully someone has a FSM lying around and can tell you for sure.

Just support the trans, wiggle and pull. the touque converter will slip off the front of the trans. be sure to put a drain pan under it unless you like tranny fluid everywhere. after the engine is out, you might be able to sneak a wrench to the tc bolts. if not get it off when the crank is out of the block. I'll PM you my # if you need a help line <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />.............Karl

Thats what I like to hear...Wiggle and Pull method. Its what I am used to. If for some reason I still have problems then I might entertain the idea of pulling the engine/trans together. Heck, its just a couple of linkages and a small crossmember...about 1/3 the size of the 4x4/4Runner crossmember.

Wiggle, Pull and if all else fails.....SCREAM!!! Probably would result in Kathie running out of the house expecting to find me pinned under the car. LOL

Thanks guys, and anyone else with any autocrackaddict trans experience....dont be shy!

~Darin <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" />

Yup, FSM says to unbolt those 6 bolts, but the torque converter does come out of the tranny.
BTW, them things can be heavy!
when you do get it out and seperate the converter, slide it back into the tranny nice and easy.
better yet, double check that haynes manual (or was it chiltons? lol!) to see if they offer anything useful in that manner.
My manuals are in storage at the moment, otherwise I'd go look it up for ya.
Todd

i would pull the motor an trans out in one shot. makes everything alot easier. this is what i did when i redid my motor saved me a lot of time and was cake to undercoat my body without a tranny

Should be changing my name to StupidBoy instead of posting this....

Got home this evening and looked things over again real good like. Lifted a tad bit with the hoist and pulled a little via a come-along attached to the hoists main riser. Got about 1/2" between the cover plate and the bellhousing lip. Hmmm started working with a pry bar lightly trying to see where it was hanging up. Bottom passenger side stabilizer bracket bolt was still threaded into the bellhousing! Would have to guess I had only backed it out....oh about 1/2". <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" /> I couldnt get either bottom bolt out all the way due to the power steering rack. Once I got it out tonight, engine with converter were swinging like a 70's disco couple....converter peeing of course. I chained the transmission to a cross bar to support the front, and will be putting the hood back on and parking it on the side for now. Thanks for the tips and words of encouragement fellas!

Oh and as it is now, stripped the torque converter, flex plate and back cover and main assembly is sitting on the stand awaiting pressure washing tomorrow. The crank is still stuck solid. No forward and no backwards rotation. Timing set is in good shape along with the topend! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" /> LOL updates later as I progress.

~Darin <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/baby.gif" alt="" />