spode134

In a 79, is it possible to install the engine with the headers bolted up to the block before placing it in the engine compartment?

mark kibort

i bet you could, as ive heard that you can pull the engine with the bell housing attached, but detached at the torque tube 4 bolt connection after the coupler is pushed back.

If you can do this, i imagine the entire engine could be moved forward and out of the front with the radiator removed etc. I bet it is a tight fit though to do this. headers are not that tough to remove and then the clutch comes out as well without that much fuss. i did a clutch job with one side headers removed (driver) and the other just loosened to get the bell housing off. it may be possible to only loosen one side.

Let us know if it works!

mk

soontobered84

I put my headers on with my engine out, which seemed easiest. Then put the engine in with the headers on. Didn't have previous experience without headers, so I can't compare the experiences.
It's a tight fit and you have to make sure you have enough ground clearance, but it seemed easier to me.

spode134

Thanks Mark and John,I'd like the install to go as smooth as possible and didn't want to have to re and re the headers and gaskets if it wouldn't work. I'll give it a shot with em on first. Should be soon as I am just finishing up the guages and electrical.
Darrin.