[quote=alfabits;443203]Thanks Jim. I also plan on installing the motor without the transmission. Any thoughts on attaching the carbs on the engine before installing the engine?
George,
Regarding installing the carbs before vs. after getting the motor in, one thing to keep in mind is that there is not much clearance between the air plenum (when installed on the carbs) and the wheel well. If the plenum is in place, you will not have much free play for moving the motor around and getting it settled on the mounts. I would install the carbs (without the plenum and carb support rod), then lower the motor into the engine compartment. When everything looks about right, raise the motor a little, then install the plenum and support rod (this way, you will have a little more clearance to reach some of the less accessible nuts). When everything is bolted up, lower the motor into place and secure the mounts. And if you install the motor without the trans, you might consider bolting in the trans before completing the plenum and motor mount installation. You will need some wiggle room to get the trans to mate to the back of the motor, which can be easier when the motor is still suspended from a hoist. Just make sure to pad the engine compartment well so that motor movement wont scratch all that nice black paint. Personally, I would rather install the motor / trans as a unit, with the rear of the car jacked up as high as possible (so the top of the trans case clears the firewall easier). But I think the Alfa nation is split 50:50 on this one
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Off topic, I noticed you have the Pirelli P3 tires. If they're getting a little too old for safety (sidewalls cracking, etc.), anyone needing the 155/15 tires can now get B F Goodrich Radial T/A in the correct size. In fact, I just received nine of them this morning (back ordered since May), so Tire Rack should have them in stock for a short time. They're about $67 each.
Jim