When pulling the toploader trans on a '69 CJ does the engine need to be lowered much for clearance?
And if so do you disconnect the equalizer bar, exhaust or other components to prevent damage damage?
I realize the shifter has to be removed (Hurst, not factory with removable handle).
Thanks
Quote from: TS69GT500 on February 28, 2026, 09:16:07 AMWhen pulling the toploader trans on a '69 CJ does the engine need to be lowered much for clearance?
And if so do you disconnect the equalizer bar, exhaust or other components to prevent damage damage?
I realize the shifter has to be removed (Hurst, not factory with removable handle).
Thanks
I don't know how you would lower the engine once in the car. ;) The engine will automatically lower in the rear when the transmission cross member is removed which may be what you were thinking of. That movement is helpful. Disconnect the engine side equalizer bar bracket so as not to put unnecessary tension on that part when the trans mount bracket is removed.Yes H pipe needs to be disconnected so it can drop down for more room to take out and reinstall trans. It should be evident that the speedo cable and driveshaft needs to be removed. Best to have a transmission cap or plug to put in the tailshaft once driveshaft is remove and transmission is tilted even more during removal/installation or expect a big smelly mess when the 90W spills out of the trans.
Hello Bob,
Yes, crossmember, driveshaft, exhaust, cable all obvious.
I was thinking of supporting the engine at its installed height after all the removals so it wouldn't drop and
avoid removing the equalizer support.
Quote from: TS69GT500 on February 28, 2026, 10:30:54 AMHello Bob,
Yes, crossmember, driveshaft, exhaust, cable all obvious.
I was thinking of supporting the engine at its installed height after all the removals so it wouldn't drop and
avoid removing the equalizer support.
you can do that or disconnect the engine block side bracket holding the Z bar as I stated and not remove the ZBar.
Be careful that when the transmission crossmember is removed and with the jostling of the engine in the transmission R & R process, that the cooling fan doesn't inadvertently break the fan shroud. I will generally unbolt the fan shroud from the radiator and just lay and/or wire it back, over the front of the engine. ;)
Scott.
Good point and great suggestion.