Engine out, how hard?

[Paul V]

I’ve got a bit of noise on the Griff engine so means it will have to be rebuilt, I can save a reasonable amount by taking the engine out and refitting it myself, it’s something I’d like to do as it will give me the chance to clean up the chassis and engine bay while it’s out. Just wondering if it’s a particularly hard job? I done a few engine swaps in other cars and it doesn’t look that bad.

[Paul V]

Hopefully I’ll be able to start within the next month or so, I expect I’ll be posting lots of ‘got this far now what?’ threads

[shpub]

Pages 56 to 61 in the bible second edition. Definitely recommend a very big hoist and a second pair of hands.

Steve

[Paul V]

I have the second edition so will have a read up.

[mack]

Paul,
Same as Quinny really, the only problem I found was that my engine crane wouldn't reach far enough over the engine centreline - very frustrating when it's 10pm on a saturday night!

I ended up buying a new long reach version the following day from machine mart, which did the job perfectly (its in their catalogue as CFC1000LR @ £176.19)

I left the gearbox and exhaust headers in place for removal and refitting, rather than struggle removing them. I then spent a few days cleaning and repainting the chassis, renewing the enginebay heatshielding, etc.

It's a fairly straight forward job, so you shouldn't have any problems

cheers,
mack

[stesrg]

To solve your engine hoist problem use a rsj 6x6 with some 1/4 holes drilled in the top flange cut the rsj to the width of your garage (persuming you have one with a roof)get someone to help (2 persons)and screw with a drill to your existing wooden beam this will hold it into place then usung 2 acrows each end jack it up. Block and tackel and vola a good useable lift capable of lifting your engine and box, make sure you use it for vertical lift only.
Steve...

[Paul V]

I do have a engine lift made out of 3 poles, used it a number of time on other cars but not sure I fancy using it on the Griff, it’s a lot more expensive to repair if it slips.

[shpub]

You can normally hire engine cranes if you don't want to shell out. A good crane is a godsend as removal is tight and the ability to move the crane makes life so much easier.

[v8 racing]

just a couple of tips, leave the manifolds on, remove the oil filter/starter motor/the rubber engine mounts the inlet manifold which allows easy access to top bell housing bolts, you probably no anyway but dont forget the battery and enjoy!!

[mickypee]

You might also consider buying a load leveller.This allows you to tilt the engine whilst it is on the hoist by turning the handle.Saves fiddling around with bits of rope and chain.Unit comes with it's own lifting chains etc.Makes it so much easier,I managed it on my own with out any problems.

www.northerntooluk.com Part No 145504E £16.99

[Paul V]

I’ll have a price up and see if it’s best to rent or buy, also considering getting the engine taken out/fitted as the cost of the tools then getting it set up could end up being the same.

[johno]

Am I the spare pair of hands on this one then ??

[Paul V]

No, you're the one cleaning up the chassis.

[johno]

Yippee !!

Can't wait ..... well maybe I can !

[Paul V]

You do seem to like taking my cars apart but tend to run away when its time to put them back together

[johno]

Well taking apart is the easy bit ...... you always send bits off for treatment and I am always committed at the time you intend to put it back together ....

That's my excuse, and I'm sticking to it !

[Paul V]

Well going to Coventry in a few weeks to test drive the Taraka so once I’ve seen how it goes I’ll make up my mind on what I’ll do.

Want to get the engine bay and chassis sorted out soon though.