Fitting the engine

[Steve A]

Is it easier to drop the front subframe fit the engine and box etc. and drop the shell over the top or is it pretty easy to fit the engine and box through the top with the subrame in situ without scratching the paintwork? Fitted a few on mk4's but a bit worried about the paintwork on my mk1 . Also any advise on what order to refit a bare shell? The subframes are now on and i was thinking loom next. Thanks Steve

[Matty]

I managed to drop mine in ok. I left the rad and dizzy off though, to give a bit more room. The main part to worry about is the diff housing, once that is past the top of the subby its not to bad.

After the subbys are on, I'd start with the pedal box, especially before you fit the steering column and seats. Saves alot of contoursionism!

[Pete]

It's a whole lot easier with the right hoist to tilt the engine. Beg, borrow or buy one....

http://www.m-machine.co.uk/MM%20Parts_Page1.htm

[Spitz]

You remembered the brake line before fitting the rear sub?

Yea...much easier dropping the engine in.
If worried you may scratch paint...put some cardboard in the possible contact areas.
I'm not sure about MkI/II's but MkIII plus, it's easy to fit with the rad already attached etc....not sure if it will get past the shroud.
(The shroud had been previously removed on my 67 )

[YMJ]

Use just one of those A series lifting brackets that are "supposed" to go on the rocker cover studs but put it on the centre front head stud. This is strong enough and it allows just the correct amount of tilt needed. Take off the rad and line anything nice with rag or cardboard.

It's a two-man job it you value your paintwork or a one-man job if you don't

[Steve A]

Thanks guys, brake lines and fuel pipe fitted. I have two brackets that a freind made that fit on the rocker cover studs. Is it o.k. to lift the engine by these studs?
Also going to fit a new loom and as i didn't remove the old one i haven't got a clue where to start or what grommets i will need. Thanks Steve

[IAIN]

I wouldn't use the rocker cover studs. I agree with YMJ put one bracket on the centre head stud. That gives a good angle to start with. You will have to tilt the unit to get past the subframe, back member, but its easy.
The best way is, if you are lucky enough to have a 2 post ramp, you can build all the suspension and the engine unit and radiator ( not the distributor ) and just lower the car over the frame.
That way you dont have to struggle fitting the fan and radiator.

[rolesyboy]

If you value your paint may I suggest carpet placed loosely around the back of the engine/box as cardboard soon punctures if say your diff housing catches the bulkhead while your busy watching the front panel doesn't get scratched:D . Take your time and it should be a breeze.
Quite how you get the radiator rubber surround on after this is beyond me though.....

Cheers. Mark

[doctor jon]

Hi Steve, I have the correct hoist that you are welcome to borrow (Walsall area).
Regards Jon

[Steve A]

Hi Jon, that would be great thanks, i have a frame over the car and a block and tackle so the braket would be very useful if i could borrow it. Where abouts are you in Walsall? I could pick it up or if you would like to have a nose at the car and dropit off that would be good. Thanks again Steve

[doctor jon]

Hi Steve, pm sent.