Engine Support fixture tool question

[5speedz34]

Well, I think this fall/winter I'm going to be pulling my cradle to my clutch and some other parts. I need to support my engine. I found some tools for it, and GM recommends a "support fixture."

 

I found these online anyone recommend on specifically?

 

http://www.etoolcart.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=310&Page=2

 

Also I want to get a light, I know Snap-On makes it. It attaches to the hood and goes across, its basically a big shop light.

[5speedz34]

Found this I think I'll get this later on.

 

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=63697&item=4556940709&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW&tc=photo

[Aaron]

Tony do have or have access to an engine hoist?

 

If so, use that as your support, that is what I did when I dropped the cradle. You just attach the hoist at both lift points using a chain, lift it until the car barely starts moving up, then continue unbolting everything and lowering it. Have fun with that rear header... :oops:

 

Here is a detailed write up on how to do it best I can explain. Please follow these, I've had to remove that header more than a few times.

 

First, take out the half axle. This involves removing the wheel, brake assembly, splash shields, and the brackets. Not too bad once you've done it before. Once the drive axle is out, disconnect the exhaust system from the downpipe. There are 3 bolts, I forget their size, either 1/2" or 15mm. Next remove the front downpipe from the front header. There is a clamp that is up by the rear header, it has 2 bolts. It is a bitch to get to. Look up through the downpipe tunnel and you should see it. Once you get the downpipe out of this clamp, that is all you need to do with the front side. Next start unbolting the rear header. First use a 13mm deep to get the nuts off, then use the appropriate torx bit to get the studs out. They have to come out. Be carful on the lower middle bolt on the rear, we had to repair the threads and they aren't as strong as the others. Now start to take the header down. It's tight, you'll have to some some crafty manuevering to get it out. I had to disconnect the power steering lines that ran down there, and a bolt that holds an electrical connection onto the tranny. You will find this out as you go. After that, its just like every other Z34, have fun, and call me if you have any questions.

 

You will need a new exhaust manifold gasket, if you get it from NAPA, it is a 1 piece, so it will be easier to put in and seal better. You will also need 2 3-bolt flange gaskets. 1 is 2.5", the other that you'll need is 2.25".

[Canada]

When I can't use the GM tools, I use a piece of channel iron accross the radiator support and cowl and a piece of chain for each lift point. Actually works fairly well.

[5speedz34]

I might just make one now that I think about it.

 

Really wouldn't be to hard.