Volvo RWD 700 Forum

Robert,

I've always been frustrated trying to pull the transmission out from underneath the car. The bellhousing bolts are always a pain to get any torque on right next to the firewall. And, trying to wheel the transmission out from under the car while you are on your back and the car is on jackstands is a real 2 man job. The automatic transmissions are really heavy!

As I have an engine hoist, I've always found my time much less frustrating by pulling out the engine and transmission together. Then I can work on the transmission easily once it is out of the car.

The best analogy I can make is this:
Pulling the transmission out from under a car is like driving through downtown during rush hour. You stop and start a lot and wonder if you are ever going to get there. Pulling the engine+transmission is like taking the long way around town on the freeway. It is 3x the distance but you are always driving and feel like you are making progress. You get to your destination ~ the same time so it becomes a personal choice. I have the tools/equipment to pull out an engine/tranny much easier than pulling out a tranny by itself. There are many more nuts and bolts by pulling out both. On the flip side, you would be amazed at all the leaks or other deteriorating things you will find when the engine is out.

Other people may have much more luck or better tools (lift?) that help them pull an automatic transmission easier than I do. So I think it really is a personal choice.

take care,
simon