I'm getting ready to replace my '02 transmission with an '04 model and replace the ATS light weight flywheeel with their heavier model. I've removed the transmission twice before so I know what I'm doing. However, this time I would like to save a few steps. One of the steps in the Helms manual calls for removing the alternator. Crawling under the car and looking at all the wire connections, I can't see why this step is necessary. Anyone care to comment on this. Also, after I swap the transmissions, I'm thinking of replacing the motor mounts with '04 models, as they look a little more heavy duty. Has anyone made this swap? Comments and suggestions from those in the know would be appreciated as I plan to do this this weekend.

 

Fred be sure and look at the write up under the North Texas club on removing the delay mechanism on the slave cylinder and do that before you get the tranny in the car.

Whatcha gonna do with the lightweight flywheel? Throw it out? You can throw it in my direction.

 

Thanks David, but it won't be an issue since I'm using a Nissan slave cylinder with the ATS clutch.

 

I never remove the alternator, just loosen it to get to the starter bolt.

 

hey that's another thing we have in common mate!

I used a Nissan slave cylinder on my modified Exedy twin plate too.
The pedal feels lighter compare to the honda slave cylinder.

 

So I can assume thats why they say to remove the alternator - to get access to the starter motor bolt. I'll just take one bolt out and swing it out of the way.

 

Remove alternator to:

Access upper starter bolt

Access two upper A/C compressor mounting bolts.

If you lower the subframe without unbolting the compressor, you may damage the lines. Besides, it takes about 2 minutes to pull the alt, which is nothing in the grand scheme of the job.

 

Thanks for the reply Billman, but I don't have an AC compressor so that's not an issue.

 

I've always yanked the entire Alternator, so I can see the upper starter bolt. It's easier to remove it when I can see it.

 

My method for upper starter bolt:

Alt removed, light shining in from alternator area toward starter.

Look between the second and third intake runner, the bolt is clear as day.

Use a 2' bar and 14mm flex socket, reaching from alternator area.