I'm trying to assemble my engine (350), clutch and M20 transmission as it hangs from the "cherry picker" and then am hoping to put the assembly in the car (69 Coupe). I've got the tranny to just under 1/2 inch from seating all the way. I've done a number of tranny installs, mostly under the car, so I know you can't force it, but the question is: What exactly is hanging up that last half inch? I know you're not supposed to force it in with the bolts. It would just be nice to get that last half inch.
2nd question: How much play should there be in the clutch release fork with the bell housing bolted on. It seems the clutch fork moves half of it's travel (in the bellhousing "hole" before it engages the throwout bearing. Does this sound right? New Centerforce2 clutch, pressure plate and TO bearing).
Any help will be greatly appreciated!
John

you can check the pilot bushing to see if its to small.:confused:

When I encounter that problem when the engine is in the car I just have someone push in the clutch. If the bolts are started and the disc is off slightly when you push in the clutch it slides right in. I'm not sure how you would acomplish that with everything swinging form the cherry picker.

Jeff

You need to make sure that your bellhousing is properly aligned. GM didn't do the greatest job with the dowel pins and they can be off. You can do this with a dial indicator or this special tool made by browel bellhousing. Information can be found here, http://www.camaros.org/bellhousings.shtml

Thanks for the replies!
Jeff, I figured out a way to disengage the clutch on the cherry picker and was able to slide the tranny all the way.
Thanks,
John

What do you think about the clutch being slack for the first half of it's travel? (the release fork travel that is)
Thanks,
John