Disassembly before engine install

[kevinc]

Been looking at pictures for swapping in a 5.3l Vortec and it seems like every time, the front clip is gone. Is it necessary to disassemble the front of the truck to install an engine and transmission? I really don't feel like doing that, but I will if its necessary.

Thank you,
Kevin C

[tincan1966]

Considering it's only about a dozen or so bolts to remove it, taking the front clip off sure makes for alot of room to work. Also, alot of us do other cleanup/modifications while apart.

Just my 2 cents worth.

[1963c-10]

It does make it easier, but you can install w/front clip in place.

[Blessed66]

Originally Posted by tincan1966

Considering it's only about a dozen or so bolts to remove it, taking the front clip off sure makes for alot of room to work. Also, alot of us do other cleanup/modifications while apart.Just my 2 cents worth.

This.

Especially when working on a Gen II or Gen III install. From pulling and stabbing an LT1 in my '94 Z28 years ago, trust me, all the extra room you can get is a great thing.

[kevinc]

Just looked up how to remove the clip and it doesn't look too bad. My only concern now if revealing all the ugliness that is probably buried underneath the paint that the P.O. covered up. Right now I'm ignorant to what's under there and I don't want to know the truth!

Thanks,
Kevin C

[jimmydean]

There will be some pine needles, I'm sure of it. But well worth it if fo nothing else but to remove and clean everything.

[kevinc]

The dirt and pine needles won't bother me. Its the possibility if I find a bondo filled hole that I could fit a bowling ball thru. That's what's making me nervous now.

[bryankichler]

I left my front clip on but one thing I did do was cut the center out of my core support the 5.3 seems taller than a small block. dont take much though to chop that center out and i went back with a torch and welded it back in you would never know the difference.