Are there any tricks to install a transmission? I changed the clutch and am having problems with the throw out bearing. I appears I keep knocking it off the fork. This is the first two piece transmission I have ever done. Can I install the transmission with the bell housing attached to it? So far I tried twice with the bell housing attached to the block with no luck. The truck is a 82 f100 with a 3 speed overdrive. Thanks for any help.

 

Welcome to FTE.

You have a 4 speed with 4th over, right? Not a 3 speed with an OD on the tail?

You may have to deal with the stick on the 4 speed, but it should come off for install.

I had this same problem with my Mustang trans. The throwout would get knocked off--real pita.

So I did what you suggest. I bolted the bell to the trans, but did not tighten it all the way. (leaves a little wiggle room). Using a floor jack, I lifted it up and rolled it forward on to the engine.

You can use a couple of long bolts with the heads cut off threaded into the block as a guide. Be carefull here, make sure the trans is secure as you don't want it falling while on those long bolts.

Some folks have used the long bolt method to slide a trans on to the bell.

Depending on how much room you have, one may work better than the other.

Another method used to help keep the trans up would be a used (or new, heck they don't cost THAT much) V-belt around the trans pulled up through the shifter hole. That way, you can use a bar to lift from the top side, or have an assistant do the same. Cut it when done.

Good luck.