engine re install

[57 Ford Kustom]

Guys,
   While i am waiting for my engine to return from the machine shop, would it be easier to install the trans now, and then the engine? Or would it be easier to marry the two, and then install it as one unit?
Thanks,
Tim

[GaryI72]

From my personal experience we dropped the 460 and four speed in as one unit. We used straps and a front end backhoe bucket, (redneck, I know).Used Crites motor mounts. Went in easier than I thought it would.

[Frankenstein57]

The 57 allows plenty of room to drop it in as one

[gasman826]

I would expect OEM drive trains to slide in or out as one piece.  If I remember correctly, yours is 351W.  Unless you have pulled the transmission with the engine in the car, I would wait and put it in as one.  There are holes in the floor for bolt access for FordOMatics.  I've attempted to pull the bell housing off my 460 and it was too tight.  I put the motor and tranny in as one with the front clip removed, rack dropped, sway bar removed, and on the hoist.

[hotroddonnie]

Installed mine with the trans connected, but it doesn't count......I had no front end on.

[hotroddonnie]

I'm in the mood to share some pics, haven't posted for a bit.

[Jeff Norwell]

Hi Donnie!

[57 Ford Kustom]

Thanks all for the replies! gasman you are right that I have a 351w and that I pulled them as one. I thought that it would be easier to do as one unit, so that is what I will do. I guess I am just anxious to do something, the weather is great and my car is still sitting!
Thanks,
Tim

[Ecode70D]

So Tim
    It looks like the verdict is in.  You're going to install it as a unit.  Right?
Jay

[hotroddonnie]

Hi Donnie!

Hey Jeff! We haven't chatted in a while....lots to chat about, I'll call you Sunday night. I see you've been busy with getting your car show ready! HRD

[57 Ford Kustom]

Jay,
  I will be putting it in as one unit, I'm just getting anxious to do something! I'm sure everyone on this site has gone through the same thing!
Tim

[sprink88]

WAY easier to put them in together. Not a lot of room for play but it is still possible.

Good choice going in as one!

[Ecode70D]

Jay,
  I will be putting it in as one unit, I'm just getting anxious to do something! I'm sure everyone on this site has gone through the same thing!
Tim

   Tim
    I always replace the transmission front seal when I have them apart.  I do this even if the trans. is not leaking.  For a couple of bucks, it's cheap insurance.   This is just my opinion. jay

[57 Ford Kustom]

Jay,
   I did the front seal, and tail shaft seal and also the seals for the shift arm, and kick down arms. I also replaced the fiber trans filter with a brass one, and obviously replaced the drain pan seal. I believe a wise man suggested it last fall when I first pulled everything out! Lol! (it was you Jay)
Tim

[Ecode70D]

    Well now you don't have to worry about the seals leaking.
    Be careful installing the torque converter.  I think you should feel (two/three?) bumps when turning and installing it..  It's been a while since I did an automatic.  These days ,all my cars are standard shift.
     Someone who has done one recently should chime in and help you  on this one. 
     If not installed properly, you could cause some damage.