Motor Install
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Motor Install
I have a 78 F250 Crew ab 4x4 with a 400. I pulled the motor had it rebuilt and now I'm putting it back into the truck. The truck has the 4 speed with granny low, NP 205 transfer case. The problem I'm running into right now is that the tranny input shaft and the splines won't engage the clutch or bearing. I've been trying now for about a full day, off and on. I've pulled the motor out, used the clutch alignment tool and double checked to make sure the clutch etc is centered, it is. I've compared sizes of the clutch tool to the input shaft, it matches. One thing I noticed tonight is when I inserted the clutch alignment tool it went in rather tightly. Are there any tricks, hints, tips help that can be offered to get that darn thing lined up and meshing?? I know everything else is clear, as I've gone underneath and on both sides repeatedly and made sure. I need the truck back on the road soon. Any help will be appreciated.
Last edited by Torque1st; Mar 15, 2005 at 12:23 AM.
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I've tried turning the input shaft, tried turning the motor, still no go, going to caliper the bushing and the shaft tonight and see, that is the only thing left that I can think of!! Anyone know did the input shafts come in different sizes???
Cross-Country
Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Pennsylvania
I realize this is sort of odvious, but just in case you're new to this. Are you making sure that the engine and trans are aligned properly? I usually use a tilt bar on the engine so that I can change the angle and a jack under the trans. The gap between the engine and trans must be equal on top and bottom (and left to right of course) or it will not go together.
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Yup tried all that, bought a caliper and mic'd the bushing ID and the shaft OD, seems the shaft is slightly larger. Took the clutch plate by itself and tried to fit it onto the splines, wouldn't go. so back to the store and get them to order another. I don't have a parking brake on the trans, they are on the rear wheels. Only one clutch was listed for this application and it is the 1 1/16 10 spline. We'll see tomorrow night when I try the next clutch.
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From: where the deer and antelo
I usually install a couple of long bolts through the bell housing to help align every thing. Having said that, DON'T TRY TO PULL THE ENGINE AND TRANSMITION TOGETHER WITH THE BOLTS. Get them long enough to help align things, then remove them and install the proper bolts.
Elder User
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From: BC, Canada
I had an issue with the input shaft on my tranny being a little burred. Wasn't obvious to look at it but if you ran your finger down the spline (carefully) you could feel where it was folded over slightly. It would make the clutch disc hang up a little and not slide freely. Before you attempt to assemble next time slide the disc on the input shaft to confirm it moves easily. Saves grief later on.