changing torque converter any helpful hints?

[Braveheart]

I have to replace the torque converter in my 71 K5 I have a 454 and a t350 tranny. What are the steps or does anyone have any tricks or tips to backing the transmission and transfer case up so swap the TC. I'd like to leave the tranny and transfer mated. What's the best advice to accomplish this task. Thanks!

[mikekoala]

I've gone at it a few times now, but the last approach was most successful due to the use of a transmission jack adapter. I bridged the transmission and transfer case/cross memeber with a steel plate and wood shims and made sure the jack was balanced. Used several straps to stabilize and for safety.

Once everything is disconnected, your drive shaft is out of the way and engine block supported, you should be able to roll the transmission/transfer case back away (and down) from the engine, far enough to slip the TC off.

I would recommend the buddy system, though. Almost dropped a big fat 203 on myself first time around. Good luck!

[1rippen6]

If you don't have carpet I remove the high hump and use an engine crane to lower it down. There is a tab on top of the th350 I lay a nut under the tab run a 3/8s bolt through a chain link and then thread it into the nut. Jack it up remove the crossmember and lower it down but first support the engine. There is a few more steps but didn't want to type the whole thing out if your carpet is still in and you didn't want to go this route. Let me know I can remove and install the tranny and transfer this way by myself.

[Braveheart]

thanks for the input. I'm doing this with the help of an accomplished gear head friend in his shop. he has a few tranny jacks and some customized boat stands to support the motor. I have a custom fiberglass center console that would need to be removed before getting the carpet, then the hump out. It would be nice to have access from above.. Planning on tackling this one tomorrow. Thanks again for the advice!
btw. I've been checking this site out for awhile as i've been a fan of the 1st gen blazers for decades! This is my 4th one that i've owned. what a great resource this site is for all aspects of these trucks....

[Braveheart]

thanks for the input. I'm doing this with the help of an accomplished gear head friend in his shop. he has a few tranny jacks and some customized boat stands to support the motor. I have a custom fiberglass center console that would need to be removed before getting the carpet, then the hump out. It would be nice to have access from above.. Planning on tackling this one tomorrow. Thanks again for the advice!
btw. I've been checking this site out for awhile as i've been a fan of the 1st gen blazers for decades! This is my 4th one that i've owned. what a great resource this site is for all aspects of these trucks....

[Braveheart]

Mission accomplished. Removed the hump, supported the motor, went slow n easy and it's done and back together. New torque converter and modulator, while i was in there, all new u joints, new starter etc.. Thanks again for the advice 1 Rippen, & Mike... now i found previous owner had welded the shifting linkage rod from steering column to the bracket that holds it.Makes it impossible to adjust! I'm looking for a new linkage assembly if anyone has one... I have a donor parts blazer but those parts are missing.

[1rippen6]

I may have one but can not check until Monday

[Braveheart]

thanks but i think i'm all set, we took the existing rod and modified it. works perfect now. no more play in the shifter.