Hello again! So I'm getting close to the actual removal & replacement of my transmission/t-case. I'm reviewing the instructions in the RAVE & there is one thing I am not clear about, & I'm hoping someone can clarify for me.

On page 440, step 48 says: "Position hoist jack channel under engine and
support using a wooden block." This is after the transmission/t-case is secured to the transmission hoist, & after step 35, which is "Lower hoist until rear brake drum clears passenger footwell. Check engine does not crush any components while lowering."

So I'm wondering What exactly is a hoist jack channel, & what hoist is this particular one on? Is it a second jack used solely to hold up the rear of the engine in the absence of the t-case mounting brackets? That's all that makes sense to me, but if someone knows for certain I'd like the clarification before I kill myself doing something stupid!

Thanks!

 

http://www.harborfreight.com/800-lb-...jack-3185.html

That is a trans jack, notice the "channel" that the trans sits in so it wont roll onto your skull or the ground?

Yes you need a jack to keep the engine from falling onto the ground, you could use a jack stand, or a bottle jack (like the trucks jack), just use a block of wood just like they say.
To much force on the aluminum you could break it.

 

You're better off making the support cradle that is in the RAVE and fitting it to the jack Spike linked to, or something similar.
I adapted mine to fit my floor jack since my jack has a removable saddle.

 

I made the cradle. Which is why I'm still unsure of what the channel under the engine is. This step is after the Trans/T-case assembly is attached to the cradle & is being supported by the trans jack. The cradle attaches at the rear of the t-case & goes to the ATF oil pan... nowhere near the engine.

I'm sure that the instruction is saying support the rear of the engine, but I wanted to make sure I'm reading it correctly. I guess I'll know for sure sometime today!

 

Alright, I won't find out tonight. I made the cradle bracket exactly as designed in the RAVE, but the front 90* angle bracket should be set 6-7mm farther forward (more distance between the front mount & the rear mount plate.

I'll give it another go tomorrow.