transmission removal

[ez2plz]

Ok I just joined this forum and need to ask a question. I am removing the transmission from my 1988 LX 5.0 5sp. I can not find a wrench or socket that will work on the top driverside (left) bolt. I noticed that a lot of you have done new clutches and removed transmission before. Is there anyone that can recommend a specific tool to get this bolt removed?? Next up is the bellhousing and the top two bolts look really terrible also. I'm hoping that after the transmission is removed these will be easier, or I might have to put the car back on the ground and try to get the top two bolts from under the hood.

Thanks for your reply

Jim

[Hethj7]

Been a while since I had mine out, but if I remember right, I used some combination of extensions and a universal swivel adapter.

Btw, this thread belongs in the windsor power forum. You will get a better response over there. I am sure a moderator will move this thread once they see it. Welcome to MW !

[silver_pilate]

Yeah, a lot of people go at it from underneath the car/from behind the transmission with a really long extension and swivel. Other than that, I don't know what to tell you.

Seems like we got mine from top-side with a wrench and a lot of sweat, bruises, and blood. Hehe.... If you have to try it from the engine bay, try a ratcheting wrench like a GearWrench. Those things are God-sends for stuff like that and the hard to reach number four header bolt.

--nathan

[ez2plz]

Well I got the problem bolt out using a 3/8 drive swivel and a couple long extensions working from the back of the transmission. The problem I was haveing before was using a 1/2" drive, it was just too big. I did have to use a 1/2" breaker bar to get the bolt to break free. These dang aluminum parts seem to really grab onto steel bolts. Once you break them free they just spin right out.

Now its on to the bell housing. It looks like I can use the long extensions and go over the top on those.

By the way -- anyone removing a starter from this year care needs a "goofy" wrench for that top bolt (if your doing it from the bottom). A "goofy" wrench is the Air Force name for one of those half circle combination wrenchs. I wraps around the starter enough that you can break loose the top bolt.

[Hethj7]

Yea, that 1/2 inch wrench may have been tough....if I remember right, the tranny bolts are metric ( maybe like 15 mm or so, although I guess 13 mm would be the closest to 1/2"). Anyways, glad you got it off.