Manual Transmission Install made Easy

I don't know how many times I've lifted manual transmissions into place, most by myself, throughout my lifetime. I have found one trick that makes tranny installation and alignment much easier, plus it helps to keep the weight of the tranny from being supported solely by the input shaft and the clutch.
Simply locate two 3" long bolts that will thread into your bellhousing, where the normal tranny retaining bolts are. Then cut off the heads of the bolts and grind that end off so that it is more ball shaped. Now you have made locating studs out of the bolts. See figure#1.
Figure#1


When you are ready to install your transmission, simply screw these studs in the bellhousing top holes (Figure#2)that the tranny normally is attached. Alternately, I have used the lower holes instead if there is inadequate clearance at the upper holes to have such long studs.

Figure#2


Now all you need to do is lift the tranny up onto the studs and glide it forward into the clutch. The studs help to keep the tranny aligned as you shove it closer to the bellhousing. See Figures below.

Figure#3

Figure#4

Figure#5

Conclusion:
Once the tranny is fully pushed forward and you have installed the other 2 attaching bolts in their appropriate holes, you can remove the studs. Then install the remaining 2 bolts in those holes. If you would like to have some additional leverage built into the studs for installation or removal, simply cut a slot on the outer edge so that you can use a flat blade screwdriver.
This same technique can be use when you are pulling the tranny to do a clutch change, or whatever. Just remove 2 bolts and install the studs. Then remove the remaining 2 bolts and pull the tranny back out of the pilot bearing.

As much as I eat clutches, this helps me alot! THANKS!

That is a great idea. Now no more prolonged bench pressing trying to get the bolts started. Wish I had thought of that 20 yrs ago.

Originally Posted by jimdevasure

"prolonged bench pressing"

LOL! I hear ya!

This method works well for installing intakes as well. Perfect alignment everytime.

cool! thanks. now what about what other performance parts to use or consider?

Hey great tip! That leads me to think of getting an Allen headed set screw instead from mcmaster carr. Its just too easy to cut the head off a bolt. I have to make it more complex!!! LOL

Awesome post! But what about tards like me that never take off the bell from the tranny?

COOL!!!!! i used more or less the same method on my c-4,but at the engine block.

that trick will also work with an automatic also. with longer bolts you can slide the tranny back and install a new flex plate with out dropping the trans