So removing the gearbox...

[Rob669]

I only put the engine back in last month and now a synchro has gone so I plan to put my spare gearbox on. Also a front spring has just snapped so both struts are going to be removed to fix this. So I fancy changing the gearbox with the engine in place but haven't done it before and there's no guide to speak of. So is this right: take out the strut and hub, leave the wishbone on the sub frame, disconnect both gearbox mounts and lower the sub frame by un-doing the two bolts a few turns? Do you need to do anything with the steering rack and starter motor (I hope not as I flippin hate leaning over to undo exhaust manifold nuts). The engine will be lowered using an engine crane to keep it all safe. Thanks.

 

[Dan@SJM]

No need to remove the strut and hub. You'll need to completely lower the subframe. Leave starter and rack, just disconnect the pinch bolt on the column or leave the rack on the car.

 

[mark123]

Personally I find removing the box in situ on a driveway/without a ramp so fiddly I'd just pull the engine and box out the top as it is quicker and less time lying under the car.
@Budgie does it without removing subrame or engine.

 

[Carlv8415]

Undo pinch bolt on column and drop subframe completely. Leave hubs and struts attached just undo from wishbones.

 

[Budgie]

Yep. As above.

I get it out with subframe and engine in place.

Fiddly, but possible.

 

[Rubicon_]

@Budgie whats the easiest way to replace the 5th gear cover? Will I need to lower the subframe?

 

[Budgie]

Nope, can do it with the subframe in place. Can wiggle the old one out and the new one in with it all in situ.

 

[Rubicon_]

Brilliant cheers!

 

[Rob669]

Thanks. The strut is coming off in this case as a broken spring needs replacing. I might take it all away then with the wishbone attached as suggested as separate it off the car.

 

[Dan@SJM]

Just undo the 2 ball joint - wishbone bolts. Sod taking the whole wishbone off!!