[DeTomaso] Engine/ZF pull - instructions & recommendations?

[Rod Kunishige]

Dear Erik,
Here is the procedure used by TPOC tech team.  Found on the chapter site.
The team is mixed on replacing the transaxle studs for bolts.  I have both and we normally do not switch.  
I can see that it would make the removal easier but some like to use the ears to guide the installation.
Rod Kunishige
 
Transaxle Pull Procedure    
Rick Flores’ Car, February 14, 2004, rev. 2/17/06.
 

Disconnect Battery.
Remove rear deck lid (optional) by pulling the hinge pins. 
Remove rear wheel well brace above the transaxle.
Disconnect slave cylinder line or slide out the slave and set aside if you have flex lines.
Disconnect shift linkage universal at the transaxle.
Disconnect half shafts. Use blue locktite during re-installation.
Remove A/C shroud and let hang to the side.
Disconnect reverse light switch.
Do NOT touch the bolt located under the speedo cable.  It points out at 45 degrees from the case.  Doing so will likely cost you big time.
Disconnect speedo cable.
Disconnect breather hose on trans.
Disconnect ground strap.
Disconnect trans mount/s.
Remove all BUT one bolt on bell housing.
Loosen distributor cap to allow some free space at distributor.
Jack up car and place jack stands.
Disconnect exhaust pipes.
Loosen engine mount bolts.
Drain transaxle oil at 17mm plug (3 ¾ qts) into a pan/bucket.
Watch for rust or burnt oil.
Jack up transaxle using 3-4 2X4s.
Remove starter.
Remove two 10mm Bell/engine plate bolts at bottom of bell housing (aligns starter).
Lower engine to rest on 2X4 block under oil pan on the cross brace to hold the engine.
Remove last bell housing bolt.
Lift out transaxle (150 lbs.) using 2 straps and engine hoist.
Check drain plug magnet for metal chunks.
Check lock wire on ring gear bolts by removing right side plate, 2 through on bottom cover and cover itself.  (Optional.)
Inspect ring and especially pinion gear for unusual wear or rust marks. (Optional.)
Inspect roller bearing race for wear at the drive spline. (Optional.)
 

_________________________________________________________________
Get more out of the Web. Learn 10 hidden secrets of Windows Live.
http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com-Blog-cns!550F681DAD532637!5295.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_domore_092008