Engine Out!

My friend Tomo and I tackled the first task of the EV conversion yesterday - removing the ICE (internal combustion engine). Tomo had recently removed his Baja Bug engine, so he was used to easy extractions. This was more confusing, as the '69 Type 3 transmission is supported by the engine only, and it was an auto trans to boot. Tomo had a Chilton and I had the Bentley manual, and BOTH books told us to look for 4 bolts between the torque converter and drive plate. There were only 3 bolts on the torque converter - like there have always been. Err...

Despite the pains of getting to the final extract, we did have fun taking this monster out. I also had fun getting greasy.

The next step will be to clean out, prepare and paint the rear engine compartment to make a new home for the EV parts.

3 Gallons to a Good Cause

I ran a one man bucket brigade today, transferring 3 gallons of gasoline from the fasty to my truck. I would drain off 1 1/2 gallons from the removed fuel tank into an oil change caddy and then from the caddy to a gallon gas can. No, I don't own a funnel - but this worked fine, besides the tank is kind of cumbersome to lift and pour.

I have now:

drained the oil
removed the fuel tank
disconnected all wire connectors in the engine compartment
removed the air cleaner
removed the black box and fuel injection loom
disconnected the air intake bellows and oil filler neck

I should be ready by this weekend, with help, to remove the engine completely.