Im ready to drop a engine on a 3.0 litre aerostar van. please share your experiences and all the tips and tricks to make the job run smooth.

 

If this is the first time that you have ever pulled an engine be prepared to spend alot of time. I have never removed one but know that you have to have floor lift and a strong stand to attach it to when it (and the front stearing units and wheels etc come down.Dont attempt this without a service manual.

 

Jay, a.k.a. JTHill24 has a nice write up on how to pull a 3.0L engine out from the front. I did the same for my 4.0L and it's similar. Jay has a write up somewhere on the Web. You may have to wait until he provides the link.

There is no need to drop the engine through the bottom. That's too much work.

By the way, welcome to our FTE forum

 

Why would the haynes manual say you had to remove it from the front?

 

Jay's photo essay on pulling a 3L is so good and detailed that i've saved the link
click here

he makes it easy...details all the in's and outs plus the don't does

 

All you need to do is ask.......

http://jthill.herringtontech.net/

JaY

 

When I get the bench cleaned up I plan on doing a A4LD.
I got ahold of one I can use to tear apart and put back together.

Will have loads of pictures.

JaY

 

I'm afraid I don't understand your message

I thought all manuals said to drop it through the bottom?

 

I ment to say "Why does my haynes manual say you got to remove it from the bottom" copper said the best way was from the front and I just wondered . Im all for the easy way

 

Because if you can pull it from the front then the Dealers can't charge you for a 8-12hr job. Thats the time their books says for the job to pull it.

JaY

 

The Haynes and Chilton manuals all said you must remove it from the bottom.

Ford's service manual says you can do it either way. I followed Jay's instructions and pulled it out the front, very easily I might add.

 

You do realize that Haynes owns Chiltons right?

 

and GM may own Ford soon!
doesn't mean I'm going to be driving a Corvette with a Blue Oval on the front

 

Im happy to learn that replacing the engine can be done without a floor lift. Up to now this was the only repair I figured I would never be able to do.

 

is it easier to pull the engine with the transmission or without, and should one unbolt the rack and pinion steering?