JLarson's build thread

[JLarson]

It has begun.

Prepped a bit Friday night. Quickjack in place, tools out and ready, but I really didn't get started until Saturday morning around 7:30. Father-in-law showed up to pretty much watch and hand me occasional tools around 8:30. My order of operations was roughly as follows:

1) Remove undertray and front fascia.
2) Remove intakes and crash bar.
3) Remove throttle bodies and upper plenum.
4) Plug lower plenum to prevent debris entering engine.
5) Remove CBE. By that time, my dad arrived bringing a propane heater (hero) and started working on the passenger side header. With the tools I had, he removed 5/6 bolts and studs on that side before having to head out. The last bolt and stud were in an awkward position for my tools on hand, so I ordered a set of double ended box wrenches with offset heads through Amazon to see if that would solve my problem. Meanwhile, I started tackling the driver's side header.
6) Removed driver's side header. Amazingly, it took maybe 2 hours at most, and slid right out. I marked the steering knuckle to easily replace it later.
7) Attempted drivers side motor mount. Even with the header removed, I could not get a good angle of attack, and rounded it slightly without making noticeable progress. Figured that was enough fun for one day, called it quits around 5.