Expert opinion sought for front trans mount

[loach1]

I replaced my de Dion bushing a couple of weeks ago and had to get an exhaust shop to get me leak-free again. While in there I discovered the driver's side front transmission mount was shot, so now I'd like to replace it without removing the exhaust if possible. My slip joint behind the cat is now welded, so the only way to disconnect is at the manifolds :-(

Is it possible to drop the cross-member enough to get at the mount bolts without removing the exhaust (let it hang by the hanger behind the cat)?

I gather this is a routine maintenance item so others might benefit from the answer to this question.

Thanks,
David

[Murray]

David I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but in my experience it's not going to work.Not only do you have to remove the exhaust but you also have to drop the nose of the transaxle enough that you pretty well have to disconnect the rear driveshaft and the shifter rod.If you don't, the tension on the transaxle makes it pretty difficult to get everyting re-alligned such that you can bolt the tranny support back in.Given the number of jobs under there that require getting the exhaust out of the way i would recommend you get your shop to cut the exhaust and install two flange joints to ease future access.

[loach1]

Thanks Murray!
I figured as much! I think I'll go ahead and try to locate a rear engine mount and get both horrible jobs done at the same time with the exhaust removed, then if I can't get the leaks sorted I'll take it in to the exhaust guy for flanging and putty.

David

[JoeCab]

Quote:

Originally Posted by loach1 My slip joint behind the cat is now welded, so the only way to disconnect is at the manifolds :-(

[slyalfa]

mine is all welded and I can do thing like this. unbolt where it goes to the cast headers
and undo all the hangers. it will drop but to get it past the frame where it goes to the motor you have to push it up and down untill you just get it to come out one side need to go up and one side down.(this can take some time but once you get it you can do it over and over but it will only come out one way). Then just drop the whole thing it will be hanging in the back where it goes over the axel but you can move it to the side and have all the work space you need to do any thing from new mounts, drive line or even taking the motor out.