I have a 1977 f150 4x4 that ive been working on here and there over the last year and half and i picked up a 1973 460 and had it bored .030 over with cam, intake, and headers but its not quite done because im waiting on backordered parts. But i was thinking once i get the engine together it would be easier to install the engine and tranny together but i need to know how hard it is to take off and install the front clip. Also i bought this stuff called Rust Seal from a company called KBS coatings to coat the frame while the clip is off

 

The most difficult part of removing the front clip in my opinion is getting the radiator support bolts out. Usually they are rusted into the mounts and will not come loose.

 

I agree with Witty on radaitor support. I recommend pulling / drain radiator, unplug wiring harness from firewall, disconnect & remove battery; reomve hood from hinges; (Leave Hinges bolt ed to inner fenders. Remove the three per side bolts that connect inner fenders to cowl, reomve bolts in door post and under rear lip of fender near sill plate area; remove nuts from fire wall to inner fender straps; disconnect hanger that holds either the speedo & E-brake cables from inner fender.
I prolly forgot one or two areas; but hope this helps.
In my opinion its the best way to install a motor & tranny with the front clip removed.

 

i should have mentioned the old 400 is already pulled out so the radiator and hood are off, and all the wires are disconnected because i was re wiring somethings. i just need to know where the bolts are to remove besides the ones on the frame

 

You'll have 3 bolts up by the cowl that hold the bracket for the inner fenders and then one screw on the underside of the fender that holds a rubber brace. Once you have removed those along with the radiator support bolts, the front clip should lift off in one piece. It does save alot of time not having to remove each fender and inner fender.

 

i see all the bolts your describing but the 1 screw under the fender, do i have to take the inner fender off to get to it? also how hard is it to install the front clip, do you have to align it or is there only one position it can go in

 

If you are refering to the bolt inside the fender (not the rubber strap) you have to open the doors and reach in between the hinges to get to that bolt. You have to check/re-align your door gaps and make sure the hood closes properly. The most problem that I had was getting the rear of the fenders to clear my front tires while lifting off the clip. It is easier to pull or install an engine with the front clip off. You will need some help lifting it.