C3 L36 Engine Mount Issue

[Michael C.]

In my previous thread the issue came up about the left engine mount interfering with removal of the coolant drain plug. If I get a swivel socket, it appears as though adequate access to the plug might be achieved by removing the engine mount through-bolt, not the entire mount. I've never tackled an engine mount, but I assume I'll need to get the engine weight off the bolt to slide it back. I don't have a roll around engine hoist, but do have a hefty chain hoist. I'll appreciate some guidance on a "simple" approach to remove this bolt. What do I loosen or remove to accomplish this?

I've read where folks have used a floor jack to lift the engine using a 2x6 or larger piece of wood under the oil pan. This seems like a shortcut to serious damage. Any other lifting point? Thoughts?

Thanks,
Mike

[Terry M.]

Re: C3 L36 Engine Mount Issue

Mike,

I have done it both ways -- no problem. One has to be careful when raising the engine by either method to find that "sweet spot" where there is no weight on the mount through bolt and one is not pushing up on the engine and simply reversing the force that keeps the bolt from moving.

[John H.]

Re: C3 L36 Engine Mount Issue

I've read where folks have used a floor jack to lift the engine using a 2x6 or larger piece of wood under the oil pan. This seems like a shortcut to serious damage. Any other lifting point? Thoughts?

Thanks,
Mike

Mike -

I use a jacking cradle made from a 2x6 base and 1x6 sides that picks up on the oil pan bolt heads, not on the bottom of the pan, to lift the engine; I made it for changing C1 water pumps, but it also works great on midyears.


PanSaddle.JPG

[Michael C.]

Re: C3 L36 Engine Mount Issue

Neat idea John. If it's not patented, I might try to make one.

[Joe L.]

Re: C3 L36 Engine Mount Issue

Mike -

I use a jacking cradle made from a 2x6 base and 1x6 sides that picks up on the oil pan bolt heads, not on the bottom of the pan, to lift the engine; I made it for changing C1 water pumps, but it also works great on midyears.


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John------


This is the best way. I've used a home-made device essentially equivalent to this myself for quite a few years.