'76 2002 - Let the games begin!

[SkidMarc]

Well, after nearly a year of ownership and 8,000 miles, it is time apply some improvements to my '76 automatic.

To date, I've replaced the wheels with 14" bottlecaps, replaced the interior with Recaros, replaced the points with a Hot Spark unit (very nice), and rebuilt the front disk brakes. Other than that, it's been about maintenance.

This winter, the transmission seals went and unfortunately, it was too cold and too much snow on the ground to fix it. I already had a 5-speed, used pedal box, and some related parts.

This past fall, my '02 buddy, THE1st3, and I bought a rusted out, but mechanically sound '75 whose parts contribution has been invaluable.

The short-term plan:

1. Swap the donor motor and install the 5-speed.

2. Replace the bushings, tie-rod and center link

3. Overhaul the rear brakes (drum now, disc later)

4. Install some tunes!

Long term, I’ll be will install my Megasquirt II (EDIS) and later convert to EFI. I will rebuild the original block and 1.8 head to a higher performance standard in preparation for a turbo. New shocks/springs and big brakes are also planned. Once sorted, I’ll do a complete teardown to attend to issues with body, paint, and custom interior.

Today, I began the work in earnest. I removed the pedal box, drained the fluids, and unbolted much of the automatic transmission. I still have a couple more bolts to remove.

My observations from today’s “exercise”:

1. It’s tough working alone. Everything seems to take so damn long. Having the right tools helps. I have a lot of tools, but clearly I’m a bit short on some useful items.

2. I was able to remove the pedal box leaving the linkages intact. This should make replacement easier.

Anyone out there have a cute way of removing the driveshaft from the diff without dropping the rear subframe??? Any other tips and tricks are welcomed!

Next: completing removal of the transmission and preparing to pull the motor.

Stay tuned!

SkidMarc

[jgerock]

Way to go Marc! Glad the 76 is progressing.

On the driveshaft removal from the diff:

Put the rear up on stands and then pull up on the handbrake a couple of clicks to add good drag from the shoes (but just enough so you can turn the tire with your foot). Use either a 16 or 17mm wrench to remove the (4) bolts securing the driveshaft to the rear diff.

[SkidMarc]

Thanks Jim and congrats on the COTM honors!

Is it me, but it seemed that the suframe's center plate is in the way. I'll have to check more closely.

How is your 5-speed working out?

Marc

[jgerock]

COTM?? Haven't seen the results yet. Geez.

You have to reach around the subframe to access the driveshaft nuts. The bolts have special flats so they don't turn.

[SkidMarc]

Cool. Thanks for the pics. Clearly, I didn't look closely enough. I guess I was getting tired. I'm going to be back at it tomorrow.

Again, congrats. Well deserved!

Marc

[SkidMarc]

Day 2:

Thanks to the added perspective offered by Jim, I was able to get the driveshaft out. It still took considerable effort as the bolts had a hard time parting ways after 34 years of bonding. I wish I had more time to finish removing the tranny. Oh well, that'll be day 3.

Things I learned today:

1. Keep at least one bolt loosely installed at the transmission. This allows less give when getting on the rear bolts.

2. A small 6-7# sledge is a useful tool ;^)

3. Draining the automatic transmission fluid takes some time. Be sure to disconnet the transmission oil cooling hoses into a bucket. You'll be somewhat amazed at the amount of oil dispensed.

4. Take the time to inspect the car while underneath. If the bushings have never been changed, it's probably a very good idea to do so. Mine are a wreck. They will be dealt with following this swap!

Stay tuned....

Marc

[Swiftus]

Marc,

I have one question for you. When in the world are you going to get around to inviting the crew over to help you get this jalopy on the road? 3 of us went over to Cuddy's to help him change his points; so imagine how many would show up for a transmission or engine swap!!!

All I'm sayin' is that life in my alley can get mighty boring. I am itching to do some work!

[jgerock]

Marc,

I have one question for you. When in the world are you going to get around to inviting the crew over to help you get this jalopy on the road? 3 of us went over to Cuddy's to help him change his points; so imagine how many would show up for a transmission or engine swap!!!

All I'm sayin' is that life in my alley can get mighty boring. I am itching to do some work!

Jay - sounds like we could use another NCC Fest at Marc's house.