C2-63 driveshaft removal question

[Gary Kemp]

My T-10 needs to come out to fix leak(s). The service manual instructs to put a 1/2 inch piece of wood between the body and the front part of the carrier to keep it from tilting up when the bracket is removed. Can anyone advise what shape the wood piece needs to be and how in world to get between the body and carrier? Or...is there an easier way to prevent the tilt? I am hoping to complete this without removing the exhaust or other parts if possible.

Thanx, Gary

[Joe L.]

Re: C2-63 driveshaft removal question

Gary-----

The rear end carrier will not tilt up unless you remove the "snubber" bracket. It is not necessary to remove this bracket to remove the nuts from the u-bolts and remove the driveshaft from the car. Even if you do remove the bracket, the differential carrier will usually not tilt enough to be a problem. But, inserting a piece of wood between the carrier nose and the floor pan is not too difficult. A rectangular piece of the appropriate thickness will work.

I don't think that you're going to be able to drop the transmission without, at least, seperating the exhaust pipes at the crossmember, lowering them and pulling them back.

[Duke W.]

Re: C2-63 driveshaft removal question

I always found it easier to remove the front mount, front bracket bolt, loosen the rear bracket bolts and let the bracket drop down to access the rear u-joint bolts. Before you do this just cut something from a 2x4 and jam it up between the carrier and tunnel. A wedge shape might work. I can't remember the details of what I used. Because the spring is aft of the differential cross member mounts it creates a moment that tends to force the nose of the diff upward.

If the block falls out - no problem. Upon assembly you can just use a small pry bar between the bracket and the carrier to get the holes lined up to insert the front bracket bolt.

While the front mount cushions are out inspect them carefully and replace them if they show signs of deterioration.

Duke