[headwerkn]

Hi folks,

After nearly a year of quite literally no time/money to look at my Vit's bottom end bearing issue, I finally have a few free days to get the engine out and start getting things sorted. This'll be the first time I've ever taken the engine out of anything (well, other than a model RC car) so naturally there's some pre-performance anxiety.

I have the Gregory's manual which, as always, is about as detailed as a fortune cookie, but in terms of what needs to be disconnected/pushed aside seems pretty clear. Surprised the starter motor needs to be removed - is that for clearance?

Any advise/tips/tricks for making the process as simple/easy as possible? I was thinking of removing the bonnet, front panel/crossmember and headlights to give myself more room on the hoist (headlights need to be cleaned and rechromed anyway) however the crossmember appears to have never been removed before (paint all over screws) and they don't seem to want to budge. My garage ceiling isn't particularly high, so I'm slightly worried about getting enough clearance.

Cheers, Ben.

[Scrawny]

I've found with big jobs that the long way is always the easiest. Take out/off as much as you think you need to get the job done. Be methodical with everything, keep bolts for certain things together. Take heaps of photos if your memory isn't real good. Spread yourself out and keep the area tidy.

[AckerDackerly]

I had the same model year USA-spec Vitara! We called it a Sidekick....

I had to remove my engine because of a damaged crankshaft bolt-hole...

basically, all you need to remove up front is the radiator fan (4 small nuts), then the shroud and finally, the radiator. This should give enough room to slide the engine forward and out. Further disassembly is unnecessary.

I hope this helps!

[cairns27]

The starter will be bolted through the bellhousing.

bye

[headwerkn]

Thanks everyone, all makes sense. I found bagging everything in marked ziplock bags was a big help when doing the head gasket this time last year. Good for knowing where each bolt/nut came from

[Rockman500]

Gday Ben I just took my vitara completely apart in 3 hrs whole body off engine and box out there is nothing too these little cars it's awesome I had my bobcat for lifting so was easy hahah take radiator out first and the front support rail from driver to passenger side it's a matter of unbolt and lift a mate to help jiggle bell housing while one lifts will help greatly hope that helps a bit cheers matt

[buzbox]

While it can be done without removing it, taking off the front apron will make the job easier.