John..pull the starter, fans and that little cover Dame mentioned. You'll have the easiest time getting the bolts where the starter should be.

Use a big ratchet and socket on the HB bolt (remove belts first) and you can turn it over (plugs too if you want to make it super easy). As the next bolt comes up..pull it out. There'* just three bolts that couple your engine to your torque converter power wise...

Why would I pull the fans? Just for more room? Is it necessary that the TC and flywheel be lined up the same way afterwards or will I even have that choice?

The fans will give you much more room and for a few quick bolts and two connectors..well worth it.

Trust me.. I've done 7 of these motors..(going to pull #8 tomorrow)

The three bolt holes are equally spaced and shouldn't require any concern as to placement. (It'* the flywheel you gotta watch for ..lol)

The FSM tells me to mark the flywheel/TC relationship.

Special tools I want:

J 37096 flywheel holder
J 35354 front cover seal tool
J 37089 crank sensor adjuster


I was gonna use the timing cover off the 93 SE, but GMPD and the old parts list tells me it'* different than mine. But I think I will use the spare walled LIM I have for the break-in period till I finally get the project heads done. I want to have as much of the new engine ready to go in at swap time to minimize the time I am without vehicle.

What'* the physical difference between these two timing covers? Uses the same water pump, front cover seal, front cover gasket, oil filter adapter... I'm trying to figure out if I can use the cover off my 93 SE. According to the lists I can find, all 92'* had their own cover, 93-95 Series I'* shared a different cover.

Use a screwdriver.

Use a block of wood. The tool makes sure that you get the seal in straight. It'* idiot proof.

Use your eyes. Slide the HB on, Look at the sensor, Anything look like it'* going to hit? Adjust accordingly.

How would a screwdriver hold the flywheel on an engine stand?

Used wood before, and it worried me. I want to do it right.

Can't really see the rings when the HB is on. I'd rather have it right the first time.

Ordered:
Head bolt set
OEM sc gasket
OEM water pump
exhaust donuts
TB gasket


Am I missing anything?

4 feet of socket extension... anything else?

I have a oil pump rebuild kit also, two, actually.

The same way it does when there'* a transmission on it....

It'* personal preference, But I wouldn't spend the money. Light taps and you're done.

Turn the motor over, It'* easy to see from the bottom.

I dunno nuthing bout adjusting the sensor. S2 FTW in this case. I'd trade you belt changing ease for adjusting a sensor you never touch.

To hold the flywheel on the engine stand. Take a bigger screwdriver.. slide it through one of the bolt holes or other hold in wheel and when you begin turning your other item..it should lock up. Leave the plugs in the motor for this..they will help with resistance.

The other thing that helps when doing things on a stand (removal..not install) is air tools. If you have a friend or availability in any way..I highly suggest it.