Torque converter install question
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 318
Likes: 0
From: Wheaton, Illinois
Torque converter install question
I want to install a torque converter on a 79 Vette w/th350. Car has Hooker Super Comps and 2 1/2 duals. Question: can I pull the trans back far enough to change the converter without hitting the headers/exhaust? Any tips or tricks are welcome! 
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 5,086
Likes: 786
From: Lebanon Township New Jersey
Al - I don't think that's possible. Remember that the top of the trans might also hit the trans tunnel as you slide it back. To move it that far you have to disconnect everything anyway.
The last time I changed converters I pulled the trans out.
The last time I changed converters I pulled the trans out.
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 3,558
Likes: 4
From: Oakland California
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 318
Likes: 0
From: Wheaton, Illinois
converter
Hey BKbroiler, I have done two converters on a 78 Trans Am by disconnecting the driveshaft, lines, linkage ect. Then I lower the jack as needed to back the trans out until I can get the converter out the trans, trans stays in the tunnel area. This is done w/ the Vette on jack stands. My question is will the headers and exhaust pipes be in the way?:thumbs
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,431
Likes: 52
From: Florida
May I suggest changing the front seal any time the converter is removed/replaced. I tried to short cut the seal once on a converter swap on a fresh transmission and the seal leaked....had to yank it back out.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 7,123
Likes: 433
From: Gladstone MO
C3 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
You have to drop the trans down as it comes back, unless you get a big angle (tailshaft on the trans real low).
And you have it out- no better time to replace the front seal. Pack the back of the seal with some light grease (vaseline) before you drive it in. If the spring comes off as you drive it in, the seal will leak.
I'd also suggest NOT using the vaseline that your wife uses to keep her skin soft. I did that one time. My bride was not happy having a little trans oil mixed into it. Just a suggestion.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 5,086
Likes: 786
From: Lebanon Township New Jersey
Al - If your exhaust pipes go through the crossmember, then you will have to drop the pipes to lower the crossmember or do you somehow leave the crossmember in place? I unbolt the collectors and the pipe hangers in back and leave the pipes in the crossmember and drop the whole assemply and slide it back.
Drifting
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,951
Likes: 1
From: Shore NJ
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