Thread: Can't get my bloody auto in!

You have to fit the torque converter to the auto first, and make absolultely certain that it has seated all the way down.

Then install the gearbox.

Then through the plate at the bottom of the bellhousing you bolt up the torque converter to the flex plate.

Dont try to bolt the TC to the flex plate and then install the auto over it. It wont work and you will break the pump in the auto.

so the flex plate is where the bolts are on the flywheel? i tried to take the torque converter off today but they bolts were that tight that we just gave up.... we stripped a head on one, do you know how we could get the bolt undone that has a stripped head?

Originally Posted by Shamo

so the flex plate is where the bolts are on the flywheel? i tried to take the torque converter off today but they bolts were that tight that we just gave up.... we stripped a head on one, do you know how we could get the bolt undone that has a stripped head?

I would have tried warming it up, but someone with more knowledge might chip in with what that does to the TC. The flex plate is what the TC is bolted to.

yeah i think we'll just have to struggle with it because I can't start it when the box is off because it needs to be in park to start and obviously because i have everything off its not sensing park or anything so yeah... if i drop the engine as much as i can down at the back and it might be able to fit on? or will it just be physically impossible?...

Originally Posted by Shamo

yeah i think we'll just have to struggle with it because I can't start it when the box is off because it needs to be in park to start and obviously because i have everything off its not sensing park or anything so yeah... if i drop the engine as much as i can down at the back and it might be able to fit on? or will it just be physically impossible?...

I've not fitted a ZF while in the vehicle.


oh crap, no I didn't mean to start the engine..... I meant to warm up the bolt with an oxy or something..... hold on, I might just withdraw that comment now.

Originally Posted by Shamo

yeah i think we'll just have to struggle with it because I can't start it when the box is off because it needs to be in park to start and obviously because i have everything off its not sensing park or anything so yeah... if i drop the engine as much as i can down at the back and it might be able to fit on? or will it just be physically impossible?...

You only need to warm up the bolt, not start the engine. Have you taken the starter off? When my transmission was out the torque converter retaining bolts were removed through the opening when the starter motor is off.

With all due respects Shamo ....

If you were able to remove the old box out ... then the new box should fit back up

It sounds as tho your trying to fit things together, but in the wrong order ...

Take some photos of the gear box / The back of the motor / the old gearbox ... and post em up , like a tutorial ... Helps us see the problems

Mike

Shamo, where are you located at?
If your in/around Melb, I might be able to come give you a hand, I've fitted a few auto's over the years,, (15 years with BTR, building, warranty, R&D, )

If you've damaged the bolt too much, you may have to try cutting the head off with either a grinder or chizel,,,a total pain,, thats if you cant get some locking pliers onto it (vice grips).

Theres usually an "O" ring on the end of the imput shaft too which you cant affard to damage, (not sure with the ZF), but you definately cannot afford to damage the pump seal. If in doubt, replace it!!

When fitting the convertor to the trans, turn it as your sliding it in, (keeping it as aligned and as square as possible),, it'll feel like it bottoms out,, hold it by the centre spigot then you'll need to jiggle it gently, rotate it, and push it, all at once, gently, it should then click into place a further 5-10mm when its home. (and watch your fingers between the conv and the housing,,,ouch)

I dont have any pics on here to help explain I'm sorry, but if you search the net, I'm sure you'll find some,,the other option, is to give me a call, or PM me.

Chops