The starter does "capture" the (so-called) access plate, and you will have to remove it to get the plate off. In earlier years, there was a little extra plate on there, - one that you could get off just by removing two bolts. That was actually an "access cover". Guess the bean counters figured out a way to save 15 cents per car............ And don't forget about that one (useless) 1/4" bolt hiding up there on the pass side above the brace. Yes, - you can leave the mount bolts in but loose. Be sure to loosen them plenty, - or the large washers will get hung up on the K-frame brackets. The brackets have a pretty good "lip" on them, and will get you almost every time. The Y-pipes are totally different, - guess they did that so we could not "trash" those mini-converters easily. Regards, DaveG. ----- Original Message ----- From: "Daniel M Wing" <imp1983@xxxxxxxx> To: <mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2004 10:33 PM Subject: IML: 318 Engine removal questions > Well, > > I am REALLY close to getting my engine out, but > here's what's left. I need to get the transmission > bracket off the passenger side. (The driver side > one came off when the bolt broke off the block > -just wonderful- -NOT!) > > I am trying by soaking with penetrating oil. > Also, how the heck does the flex plate access cover > come off? It seems like it is captured by something > other than the bolts. Is it hooked into the starter > motor opening somehow? > > One more thing. Can I leave the engine mount bolts > in, but loose? It looks as if the engine just lays there > in the u-shaped mounts and is just held in place by > the washers and bolts. > > Oh yeah. Will a y-pipe (crossover) from an 80 > Cordoba or Mirada w/out the mini catalytic converters > fit? Someone mentioned this once. > > HELP. > > Dan Wing > Marcy, NY USA > > imp1983@xxxxxxxx > > ________________________________________________________________ > The best thing to hit the Internet in years - Juno SpeedBand! > Surf the Web up to FIVE TIMES FASTER! > Only $14.95/ month - visit www.juno.com to sign up today! > >