Engine removal vs front clip question

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Nov 18, 2011 | 04:02 PM

Tyler S

Thread Starter

Elder User

Joined: Aug 2011

Posts: 649

Likes: 1

From: Tucson, AZ

Engine removal vs front clip question

I have decided to pull my engine (351W) out of my 51 F-1. Should I take off the front clip to do that or should I leave it on? Either way I plan to borrow an engine hoist from a friend of mine (Lorolr on FTE).

If I need to remove it (and sooner or later I will for sand blasting etc.) is there a good exploded diagram anywhere of a 51 front clip? I have the 1944-1952 Ford body parts catalog, but I don't see a diagram of my front clip. I THINK I have body type C81B "DeLuxe Closed Cab (114" and 122" Wheelbase)-Light Duty" but not entirely sure.

I would like to have a plan if and when I remove the clip rather than just laying into it with a wrench and muddling through.

Thanks guys,
Tyler

Nov 18, 2011 | 04:56 PM

BigPigDaddy

Cargo Master

Joined: Sep 2007

Posts: 2,624

Likes: 7

From: OR and UT

I removed my front clip with a little help from Ilya (51PanelMan).

Here's the info in my thread.

Nov 18, 2011 | 06:07 PM

ALBUQ F-1

Fleet Owner

Joined: Jul 2004

Posts: 27,290

Likes: 1,055

From: NM

By all means take it off! You don't disassemble it, you just take out the bolts at the radiator support, the running boards, and the cowl, disconnect the wiring, and badda-boom, it lifts off as a unit. You'll never regret doing it. (You will want the hood off too)

Nov 18, 2011 | 06:14 PM

topmoo

Postmaster

Joined: Aug 2003

Posts: 3,222

Likes: 6

From: Houston

It is much easier when it is off, and you can clean it up a lot easier too. You will also have to remove some wiring or unplug it for the lights and anything else you might have on your inner fenders. But worth it when taking out or putting in an engine and tranny.

Nov 18, 2011 | 07:44 PM

Tyler S

Thread Starter

Elder User

Joined: Aug 2011

Posts: 649

Likes: 1

From: Tucson, AZ

Ok good info. I'll do it. For some reason I wasn't smart enough to look in my shop manual to see how to remove the clip. The procedure is right there, just as you all described. Being inexperienced is tough enough. Inexperienced AND STUPID is even worse!!

Thanks guys!
T

Nov 18, 2011 | 07:49 PM

Jolly Roger Joe

Lead Driver

Joined: Jul 2011

Posts: 6,599

Likes: 34

From: Rockingham, VA

I can't count the number of times I've asked questions on here, only to find the answer in the Shop Manual. You are not alone... and you are not stupid. No one here is going to fault you for asking a question. That's why I love this site.

Nov 18, 2011 | 08:21 PM

Jeff and Nicolle

Logistics Pro

Joined: Apr 2010

Posts: 3,577

Likes: 29

From: Pekin, IL

Tyler I ask questions like that and then forget by the time I really need the info.
Then ask again because I forgot that I already asked...that's when I really expect to get hammered...