C3 Engine detailing: yank it or leave it in?

[Dan Pepper]

Reality check - I told myself the engine would stay in for this detail job, but... the distributor is out, the fan/clutch/H20pump and misc brackets are off and I'm just a few bolts away from being able to pull the engine to do a "uber" detail job. Yes - it's the proverbial slipper slope.

Question: What is the most efficient engine removal procedure? W/trans attached? Remove trans and bellhousing, then pull engine? Unbolt at bellhousing only? Tips, tricks or a cold bucket of water in the face are welcome. This is an L46/M21 1969 Coupe.

[Steve Wallach]

Re: C3 Engine detailing: yank it or leave it in?

Put down the pipe and slowly back away!

Ok, just kidding, but my 1968 project has gone from a "strong detail" to a "nut and bolt, body off restoration". Something I was planning on doing over 4 days has turned into 4 years and counting!

With that said, you won't be able to do as good of a job with the engine in the car. Can you drop the transmission from below, then pull the engine?

I did detail my 1967 BB while in the car, but have recently "gone back in" and pulled the intake manifold, and Wiper Pump / Washer motor, so I guess I'm a glutten for punishment also.

My 1968 does look AWESOME so far, but it's very time consuming and toss any budget out the window!

Did you say "Slippery Sloap"? That would be an understatement!

But then again, when people see my 68 Frame / Chassis / Engine/trans at this stage, they stop and stare in amazement, it's pretty hypnotizing really!

Good Luck, as long as your not under any pressure for time or space, you should be ok, if your doing it outside in the weather, DON'T!

Steve

[Barry K.]

Re: C3 Engine detailing: yank it or leave it in?

I faced that very same question myself recently.
In Nov i started my motor clean-up project. Inititally my only goal was to pull the intake and valve covers to clean them up.
Before I knew it the exhaust manifolds were off, the radiator and fan shroud were out, the fanblade, waterpump pulley and waterpump were off, all the hoses, the expansion tank, etc, etc, etc.
I was only a few wires and a few engine mount bolts away from pulling the entire motor out and seriously considered it

I finally decided to leave it in and I painted the block in the car but with everything masked off.

i just knew pulling the motor was going to get me in too deep and i'd end up doing MANY more things than I planned on - well, I already did a lot more than I planned but I had to limit myself somewhere.

whatever you decide on, good luck!

[Kenneth G.]

Re: C3 Engine detailing: yank it or leave it in?

i think detailing/cleaning an engine is one of the most difficult things. it is tough to lean into and clean/detail. there are so many nooks and crannies and grease is difficult to get off. in addition every time you drive (yes DRIVE!) the car, dust, grease and oil get on it. i originally detailed my engine by doing it in STAGES over a period of time. anyone who thinks they are going to detail their engine compartment in a day or two will face a lot of frustration. i did a little at a time using a variety of cleaners, pads, sponges etc. elbow grease and patience are important!

Kenny #31871

[Lee S.]

Re: C3 Engine detailing: yank it or leave it in?

The "Restoration Vortex". It just sucks you in.

The only cure is have your wife lock up your tools (the ones in the red toolbox - LOL), credit cards, and checkbook.