engine and drivetrain 5-spd tunnel work I don't want to use BFH....

[winstontj]

Someone posted a nice photo/drawing/measurements of where exactly to enlarge the tunnel. I want to cut out a section and invert it so the transmission will fit and I will have an access panel to bleed the clutch/get at things. Would someone please be kind enough to share??? My car is no gem but I still object to taking a BFH to it anywhere. I'd rather do the job correctly than bash the crap out of it....

Thanks,

TJW

[colorobo2002]

The amount of hammering of the tranny tunnel for additional clearance around the slave is much less invasive and less noticeable than cutting out an access panel. I used a rubber mallet to softly push the metal about 1/2" out around where the slave goes. I can take a picture of the area for you if you like.

People talk about the problem or R&R the e21 slave after a 5spd conversion and I just don't get it. If you use some extensions on a ratchet, you can easily get to the nuts that hold it on. Bleeding from underneath isn't a problem either. It sounds crazy, taking a BFH to your car, but you're not smashing up the tunnel *that* much.

Good luck.

[jakeb]

I agree..use a hammer. It took me probally 5 minutes to do it. And I actually pushed it back too much and then hammered from the inside out after it was in and I still have a lot of clearance.

jake

[winstontj]

You know when you watch shows like Biker Build Off and they take a BFH to a piece of flat stock to make a gastank or something... that's what I pictured. I thought I'd have to hammer it out like 3 inches to the point that the carpet would stick out or you could feel it on your foot as you hit the gas. If it's only a little I'll just hammer on it.

Is there an easy place where so I can hammer first or is the only way to put it in and see? I'd like to hammer first so that I don't have to keep putting the transmission in & out... In & out.. over and over...

Thanks,

TJW

[SOUTHBAYeric]

I just finished my conversion and the best way is to put the trans in without the clutch and mark it. The end of the slave needs clearance. And replace the slave while the tranny is on the ground.

[winstontj]

because i'm doing a mock-up i don't want to take the PP off... I know that it'll be a PITA to fit on & off like that but that's why I was hoping to get a template or something.... I'll just deal and figure it out as I go. If it's the end of the slave cyl it must be pretty far back then right?

[Whale]

(nt)

[winstontj]

that's exactly what I wanted to do.... if only there were a template or measurements so I could fabricate first....

[jpcapoc]

It's really not a big deal. Just measure it. A couple of moderate blows with the BFH is all it takes. You don't even notice it from the inside of the car.