Install motor and trans separate, or attached?

[jenkins71]

Hey guys, the title says it all. I'm about set to drop my 440 into my 1971 Charger. I also rebuilt the A833, and went ahead and installed it so I could get my shift linkage all set up.

So is it cool to drop the motor in with the trans already in the car, for a 4 speed? This is my 3rd engine swap, and I can't remember how I did the first one about 10 years ago... and the second one I did was in a Dodge van, and I had the tranny (which was an A518 automatic) already in the van. But this is a 4 speed....

I would hate to have to take the trans out as it was a bitch to get it in all by myself with a single floor jack! I did leave all the bolts loose so that the trans can move around some.

Thoughts? Thank you!

 

[terzmo]

Hood off and a friend....it can be done....some jack the rearend up for a better angle

 

[jenkins71]

I feel like I did this when I was 16 on my 71 Satellite... Had an OD 4spd and a 360. I think I put the trans in first

 

[jenkins71]

Is there anything wrong with installing the manual tranny first, and then installing the engine? Will there be a risk of stuff being attached incorrectly?

 

[moparcrazy]

Install with suspension-Engine-and Trans :eusa_dance:

 

[Cranky]

I've always like to mate things up on the floor and install the engine and trans together. Just seems easier to me. I also use a chain fall hanging from the rafters. My pull chain has been shortened so it doesn't get in the way or ride on the car.

 

[jenkins71]

Install with suspension-Engine-and Trans :eusa_dance:

View attachment 259489View attachment 259490

Yeah, i've done it that way with another guy on his Dart... Not gonna happen in my tiny garage, plus the k frame etc are still on the car.

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I've always like to mate things up on the floor and install the engine and trans together. Just seems easier to me. I also use a chain fall hanging from the rafters. My pull chain has been shortened so it doesn't get in the way or ride on the car.

Yeah, but stupid me, i already put the trans in the car... do you think it would be easier to take it back out and attach it to the motor, or attach it to the motor in-car? I have an adjustable-screw-type engine hoist, so i can change the angle of the dangle easily.

 

[Cranky]

Would probably be just as easy to go ahead and stick the engine in and leave the trans where it's at.....