Which is best to do? Also does anyone have any write ups on how to do this? (specially involving disconnected the A/C ect.)

I think i have a spun bearing so I'm researching this a little.

 

I helped change an engine in a V6 camaro and we dropped it. But we also had a hoist and the proper tools and what not.

 

You can find out the bottom write-ups with a search. This same question is frequently asked. It boils down to personal preference.

 

K. I've been doing searches and read that its alot easier out the bottom but didn't know if having the transmission already out would make a difference or not.

 

In the article I read in camaro high perfomers they dropped it. I also have a friend that dropped it and he said it took him 3 hours to remove and reinstall but that with a hoiste and another friend helping him.

 

Going out the bottom would probably be easier with the transmisison on. Even with it off, you will still need to balance the weight of the back of the engine when it comes out.

 

I'm sure its easier out the bottom if you have a lift, but I don't and have goen through the top 3 times now, using a TPIS Happy Hooker I bought years ago. The first time I did it (automatic car) took about 3.5 hrs, start to finish. Not that bad IMHO.

 

We've pulled off a cam install in a LS1 car in 2.5hrs once... out the bottom...
Even if you dont have a lift... set the back wheels up and use a engine hoist....

 

I thought you could swap a cam by just removing the bumper and the radiator and a couple other things in front.

You used an engine hoist (likely designed for <1000 lbs) to lift the entire front of the car?

 

Yep, it's pretty much the standard procedure for going out the bottom.. remember that the entire k-member and engine assembly is not coming up with the front of the car, so it's actually pretty light in the front half.

 

Cool. well i'm thinking its coming out the top if i do have to then guys. Thanks. How much does the motor weight and the standard Cherry picker should support it correct?

 

LS engines weigh about 450 lbs fully dressed.

 

The two cars in his sig are LT1s.. plus he posted this in LT1 tech, so that's not going to help him. Then again, neither is this post...

 

Doh.

LT1s are heavier than LS1s, because they're iron instead of aluminum.

This page indicates that an LT1 weighs 620lbs with a manual transmission and 562 with an auto.

A T56 weighs about 140 lbs (I should know, I just shipped one ), so I guess the engine alone should be about 480 lbs.

 

Wow.. i really didnt think the transmission weighted that much lol. I was thinking about 75lb when i picked it up.