70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

[Paul Y.]

Re: 70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

Bill:

When I used to do frequent clutch replacements there were two things that I found to be needed (almost mandatory) to do the job quickly and correctly. One was a set of alignment pins that you can insert into two (or more) of the transmission to bellhousing bolt holes to make it easier to remove and reinstall the transmission. These can be easily made by cutting the heads off a few similar sized bolts about 3-4 inches long, and cutting a screwdriver slot in the end. They can also be purchased. MR GASKET is one brand.....but I found that these were just a bit too short for my needs. I usually just make what I need.

The second item is an actual old/new transmission input shaft to correctly align the clutch plate when installing it. Without this you are guessing. The plastic alignmnet shafts that are sold today are okay if you have nothing else, but they are often a bit off, which causes install problems. With an actual input shaft, things go smoothy and without any issue. If you cannot get one in time, you can have a helper work the clutch pedal to free up the clutch plate alignment during the reinstallation process.

If you replace the pilot bushing, get an Oillite one and trial fit it to the transmission shaft before you install it into the crank. Making a wooden or aluminum installation tool and putting the bushing in the freezer overnight before installing will also greatly help. I recommend using only the Oillite non-magnetic bushing.

I also recommend buying and using a floor sissors transmission jack for doing this work if you do not have lift access. They are not to expensive. I never had the luxury of having a lift for this work, and always did it on my back. Sometimes in the rain. But that was years ago. I probably have ONE more clutch replacement left in my old body......and I'm saving it for when I have to do it for the LAST time.

Larry

That's all good advice. I also like to put a little bit of grease on the spline of the input shaft to make it slippery. I find that it helps alot for doing it alone.

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

HI Guys.

I just wanted to get back to everyone.

I just today finally pulled the transmission. I know, it has been a year. It was not bad at all on my back. I am sure getting it back in will be a little tougher.

I purchased the harbor freight jack but did not need it to pull the trans. Should be a big help getting it back in.

Thanks for all the great advice.


Bill

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

Just one more update and a quick question.

M20 has been out and rebuilt. New balanced flywheel, clutch, and yoke. Found a lot of issues when I finally took things apart all of which have been corrected including a non magnetic pilot bushing.

Transmission has been reinstalled and frankly that part went a little smoother than expected laying on my back.

I cannot thank everyone enough for all the great advice.

Now for the question.

Should I install the shifter bracket first and then the shifter or can I install the shifter on to the bracket and then install the assembly? The two bolts on the bracket would sure be easier to do while out on the bench. I removed the shifter and then the bracket when I disassembled. Back then I was just planning a simple shifter rebuild. Project creep

Thanks,


Bill

[Patrick H.]

Re: 70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

Bill,

I've found it hard enough with the shifter off the bracket. I can't imagine you can do it with them already assembled together.

[Mike E.]

Re: 70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

HI Guys.

I just wanted to get back to everyone.

I just today finally pulled the transmission. I know, it has been a year. It was not bad at all on my back. I am sure getting it back in will be a little tougher.


Bill

Don't feel too bad...I nursed alone a flakey clutch on a C5 Z06 for 6 years. A couple years ago I took the whole labor day weekend + one day to get it done on jack stands. With it you must remove EVERYTHING behind the Torque Tube, Trans Axle and it is HEAVY.

Mike

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 L46 4 speed Transmission Removal and Clutch Replacement

Don't feel too bad...I nursed alone a flakey clutch on a C5 Z06 for 6 years. A couple years ago I took the whole labor day weekend + one day to get it done on jack stands. With it you must remove EVERYTHING behind the Torque Tube, Trans Axle and it is HEAVY.

Mike

I bet it was heavy.

I can laugh now but when I pulled the transmission I was just a little too proud not realizing I did not have quite enough room to get the trans off my chest. I was laying under the the car and got stuck with the M20 on my chest and the reverse light bracket digging in to me. I finally was able to shimmy and get the transmission off my chest but it sure was close.

I actually had a pretty easy time getting it back in all things considered.

Cannot wait to drive without all the vibration and a transmission that will shift as it was intended.



Bill