Engine in or out?

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MrJLR

MrJLR

Built, not bought
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I'm gonna rebuild my front suspension.
The engine is currently out.
Is it easier with the engine out of the car?

Jeff
 
Yes, especially for removing torsion bars, idler and pitman arm, and steering box removal if necessary, etc.

You just won't be able to set the alignment until the engine is in.
 
By far, easier without.......everything easier to get to..

Just need the motor (weight) to set the ride height, initial alignment, and tighten the LCA stud.
 
Sure, That way you can pull the K member and clean and paint it.
 
As said, just don't tighten the LCA nut until the engine is in, or the LCA bushing rubber will get torn when the engine is installed and the car goes through the first dip....
 
Ok....it's unanimous then!
ANOTHER "while I'm at it "!


Thanks for all the replies!

Jeff
 
HemiDenny said:
By far, easier without.......everything easier to get to..

Just need the motor (weight) to set the ride height, initial alignment, and tighten the LCA stud.
Click to expand...

I fabed up some solid adjustable shock replacements. Pipe, nuts and some threaded rod. I can set the ride height measurements and do alignment with the bars and engine out and just set the height back when everything is back together.
 

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Frankly I can't see as it makes much difference. LOL

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Seriously, tho, if you have the engine out now, the work will go easier. Don't try to align it until you get the engine / trans back in of course
 
Pull the engine and trans, clean everything with that biodegradable purple cleaner(use caution on exterior paint surfaces and aluminum), repaint the engine, suspension and engine compartment and reseal as much as you can while it's out. You can get catalyzing paint and spray it with an inexpensive Harbor Freight spray gun with amazing results.

Use synthetic disc brake grease on any parts that move wiggle or slide, especially on any bushings including shocks and front strut rods. It won't attack rubber or plastic, has a very high washout resistance and lasts for years. Try it on your rear suspension one time and you will never assemble a suspension again without it.
 
ANOTHER "while I'm at it "!

Inspect the steering box very closely and, if necessary, replace or rebuild it while the motor is out. It may just start leaking as soon as the motor goes back in. Ask me how I know!
 
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