Unofficialbmw.com

[cmcon98]

OK, so I've been blabbing about my 5-speed conversion-in-progress lately, and you've all been very helpful when I needed advice.

So today was the day to actually install the tranny. Resurfaced flywheel, new bolts throughout, new seals, new clutch and all associated parts, etc. One big problem. My helper was sick and couldn't make it. What to do. No lift...car is on four large jackstands in my garage. Here's what I did:

I got two big heavy cargo tie downs. Ran one under the bellhousing with the ends hooked to the control arm lollipops. The other was under the rear casing of the trans and hooked to the door hinges. Very secure. I lifted the tranny with the straps enough to get my big aluminum floor jack under it, then jacked it into place, tightening the straps as I went for extra security. I didn't want the tranny on my face, thanks. Once the input shaft was past the clutch pressure plate fingers and into the dosc, it slid right home. I know how lucky I was, that it went in first try, but I was very careful when aligning the clutch. So now it's bolted up, and I just have to do thge hydraulics, shifter, driveshaft, wiring (for the cruise and to eliminate the start relay) and exhaust.

It was unorthodox, but very safe and it worked. I'm pretty strong, but there was no way I could bench press that tranny safely while trying to align it.
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Cirrusblau '88 325iC 5-speed
Cosmosschwartz '99 M3 'vert 5-speed

[regis101]

Necessity is the mother of invention. Well done.
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Peace, Regis
89 325is
89 328i
78 VW campr

[Quincy56]

I put mine in myself with a floor jack and some of my own strength.
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92 325ic - Isabelle
91 318i - Oscar - RIP
89 325i - Otis - RIP