SM465 install question

[Myoldtruck]

Im in the process of changing over from a 3 speed to a 4speed (sm465). I have a 2wd long bed. I cut out the floor pan for the high hump.

I need some input on how to get this heavy trans lifted up and installed into the bell housing. Im doing this in the garage.

So far I installed a wood 2x4 across the dash going thru both vent windows. Installed a come-a-long to the 2x4. Installed lift chains on top of the trans. Im able to lift the trans to a certain point up into the tunnel, and used my floor jack under the trans.

I just need some more input to get the rest of the way there.

[midniteblues]

Your gonna need some tilt too get the input started into the bell and bearing being carefull not too knock the bearing or fork off.
Then get it more level with the motor too get it slipped into the disc and the trans seated into the bell. This can take quite a bit of effort. Rocking and turning the trans while pushing it in.

Don't use the trans mount bolts too pull it home. That can cause problems.

Some keep the trans in neutral it kinda helps too get the input splines lined up with the disc.

I did offer up my trans jack too you. It makes it easier if ya can get the truck high enough.

Just a observation here. I hope you have those jack stands under the frame in the front and not the core support pan.
I could see a broken radiator if they are under the pan.

Oh an that's a pretty slick lift set up

[muley]

Get a couple long bolts that fit the trans/bellhousing bolts. Saw the heads off and grind smooth. Use these on two corners as alignment dowels. Used to use these a lot when splitting a tractor. Makes it a ton easier keeping the alignment straight when pulling it back together.

[Myoldtruck]

Thank you for some input. I have to come to terms with the fact this is something I cant do by myself. Im close though.

Im picking up longer bolts today to cut the heads off of them to try and use them as starter dowels. the sm465 doesnt have bolt ears that stick out so using dowels like with the 3speed wont work out as easy. Doing muncie aluminum boxs years ago was easy compared to this heavy monster.

[midniteblues]

Originally Posted by Myoldtruck

Thank you for some input. I have to come to terms with the fact this is something I cant do by myself. Im close though.

Im picking up longer bolts today to cut the heads off of them to try and use them as starter dowels. the sm465 doesnt have bolt ears that stick out so using dowels like with the 3speed wont work out as easy. Doing muncie aluminum boxs years ago was easy compared to this heavy monster.

Yhea it's no fun laying on your back wrestling with it by your self. But it is doable.

[Grumpy old man]

Use a trans Jack , I've never seen anyone use a 2x4 ( that can snap ) thru the vents with a come along ? It can be done with just a floor Jack and a bowl of wheaties .

[Wrenchbender Ret]

Have you checked the size of the hole in the bell housing? The 465 uses a larger hole then some of the other trans.

[Mike C]

One of the best way to do this is with an engine hoist poked through the door. Use it to lift the trans up and then you can slide the hoist (not best way to treat the fixed front wheels, but gets the job done!

Harbor Freight sells a $40 transmission jack that scissors and raises with a ratchet or impact. Well worth the price of admission.

[RedRoad]

I just put one in my K20 and used this from HF. I just removed the handle and propped up the trans with some 2x4s.

http://www.harborfreight.com/500-lb-...art-60730.html

I used the long bolt guide technique and got it almost all the way in, once close I layed on my back and leg pressed into place. Helped a bunch putting in the t case too. The older I get the more helpful this thing is!!

[Myoldtruck]

Well, I got the trans in. I had a friend of mine who is a auto mechanic come over and give me a hand. We still had a hell of a time getting it together.

I wont know how the trans works out untill i button everything back together. I have to send out the drive shaft to get modified. I do have a correct 1970 gmc longbed 3/4 ton drive shaft, Im going to see what the shop has to say about that. The 3/4 ton shaft has the correct slip joint in the middle and the shaft diameter is about 2" as compared to the stock 1/2ton that is about 1-1/2" diameter. I have the 12 bolt rear as compared to the dana 60 that was in the 3/4ton, may need a special ujoint to make that work.