Ok, I know that I've seen this topic before, and just can't seem to find the right search keywords. So I'm reinstalling my rebuilt engine, I used the ra video during the engine removal, and removed the six clutch to flywheel bolts in order to separate the trans from the block, which was actually very simple to do. I left the clutch on the input shaft of the trans. Now, my question, is there any reason that I can't just leave the clutch on the input shaft of the trans and rebolt the clutch back to the flywheel? Or do I need to pull the clutch and attach it back to the flywheel before dropping the engine back in?

Thanks!
Justin

 

It's smarter to have the pressure plate and clutch disk bolted up as they serve as the last thing that saves your pilot bearing from being destroyed due to being misaligned. Use long bolts to line the bell-housing up to the block and don't listen the peanut gallery here on the forums...

 

I'm guessing that's why it was so hard to find a thread about that. sounds like it's not the best thing to do.

Thank you!
Justin

 

Make sure you use a clutch alignment tool when you bolt the pressure plate back to the flywheel.

What happens if you don't use the tool mentioned above you risk damaging the pilot bearing and clutch disc . Last but not least since it will not be aligned you will never be able to mate the engine and tranny together.

What you mentioned in your original post is impossible . You can't slip the clutch over the input shaft and then mate the engine to the tranny.

Engine --flywheel----disc--- alignment tool---- pressure plate--- tighten pressure plate screws---- remove alignment tool---- now drop the motor in and wiggle wiggle yeah wiggle wiggle wiggle yeah until the engine and tranny are back together .

 

thanks alex, ordered up an alignment tool yesterday!

 

The only reason people unbolt the pressure plate then leave the clutch/PP in the transmission is they can't figure out how to unhook the throwout bearing. It really isn't hard, best to use 2 long flat screwdrivers and it will come right off.

But, yes, you do need to fully install the clutch and pressure plate on the flywheel, make sure it's all aligned, then bolt 'em together.

Dale