is it best to install the center cross member before putting the engine in, or after the engine is already installed? I will be doing this in the next 2 hours, so help me if you can thanks

-MIKE-

Stroked 2.2L

Do it after. In fact, make it one of the last things you do.

thanks fellars...oh by the way, I have already done it, but I wanna make sure it is safe.. I put my transmission back in a little while ago (yeah I'm workin on it outside and its 40 degrees ) and I kept my axles in while I did it.. it was very hard to do but it worked.. but I wanna make sure it is safe to do this before I start it up after I get my engine in. thanks

Personally what i do. I put the cross member in, not tight just in. i use the cross member to hold up the bellhousing while i use the jack to lower the drivers side of the trans. this tilts the top of the bellhousing to the drivers side so the flywheel can slide by. Just my preference and it works for me. You will find what works best for you.

I have had my motor out 3 times and that was the most comfortable way for my liking.

Terry

oh it was definately a pain in the ass.. I put the long-shaft (haha) of the axle in the tranny and then slowly lowered the tranny while I slid the shorter one in.. as far as I can tell they are in there perfect, so I think its fine..

haha yeah I know, I was laughing the whole time I was typing it.. glad I wasnt the only one who took it that way