I am replacing my transmission... using jack stands and such....

1. I disconnected the drive shaft. I assume its a 2 part drive shaft... should I hit it with a hammer or use a pry bar to get it to go back a little?

2. Its a big drag disconnecting the torque converter... any suggestions...what about turning the engine to access the TQ bolts....

3. Should I let the transmission droop.... should i let the rear of the tranny hang down...?

4. any hints on accessing the 2 top bell housing bolts.....?

5. talk to me about the exhaust clamp that connects to the bell housing...?


6. Is it really necessary to disconnect the torque converter from the engine if you are going to reuse it....?

i know they are a few of you wrench turners out there...
what suggestions do you have.

I suggest that you take a look at the rear portion of the trunk lid. There should be some letters and numbers there. Let us know what they are.

1982 300sd mercedes w126, 617 eng 722 6 bolt tranny...

1. Disconnect it at the diff for a little more clearance. Most likely you'll have to drop the exhaust and the exhaust shield to fully remove the prop shaft. I've been able to do the shortcut on a LWB 116, never on a SWB 126. Don't let the prop shaft flex too much as you remove it.

2. There is a window at the bottom front of the bellhousing through which you can access the torque converter bolts. Turn the engine only in the direction it turns when running.

3. Certainly not without keeping an eye on the engine connections. Best to put a jack with a thick piece of wood under the oil pan to keep the engine level.

4. Lots of access from above with a box wrench.

5. Detatch it from the transmission. What more do you need to know?

6. Yes because you will surely damage something unless you use a precision hoist to pull the transmission perfectly straight away from the engine. There's no room to do this with the engine in the car. You need a tremendous amount of luck to get the input shaft aligned with the torque converter when reinstalling the transmission. Most likely you will damage the front seal, input shaft, torque converter or all three.

Sixto
... stay tuned