I'm trying to remove the engine(3.5L) while leaving the transmission in the truck. Any advice on how to reach the 2 transmission bolts at the top located behind the valve cover? I can see and get an open end wrench/socket on the passenger side. Still can't get enough leverage to loosen it. I even tried from below with an impact & 3 foot extention. So far, I can't see/touch the bolt on the other side. I have removed the intake(pain in the a**) and valve cover. Not much help

 

Went back out this morning. Put a 1/2" breaker bar on the 3 foot extension on pulled until it broke loose. I was finally able to get a socket on the other bolt and the impact got it out. Now on the converter bolts that for some reason are recessed in. So far no luck with a socket or torx socket.

 

Offset box wrench?

 

The service manual suggests using a 18mm crowsfoot or short 50T torx socket. Not sure whoever wrote this has actually tried either of those. Here is a picture of all my attempts/ homemade tools. Yes, I broke an allen wrench welded to a socket. Big thanks to RVR for suggesting the offset box wrench. Don't know why I didn't think of that. My daddy always said that I wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed.

 

The correct tool for the TQ Converter bolts is a Torque PLUS 50 bit, not a plain T50. Use the right tool.

• Torx PLUS design is an evolution of the original Torx design that features lobes that are more square to allow for higher torque and minimize wear
• Torx PLUS bit sockets are for use with Torx PLUS fasteners only - these bit sockets are not compatible with standard Torx fasteners

Good luck.

 

Thanks. Didn't know there was a difference.

 

Well, the engine is out. I'm cleaning up the engine bay and moving some parts over to the "new" engine. Which by the way, I noticed had 3 broken exhaust studs. Broke out the welder and got 2 out. The 3rd required drilling and easy out.

 

That certainly looks familiar.