Getting ready to replace flexplate

1986nate · #1 10-01-2008, 01:34 PM

So I bought my first svx a few weeks ago and just after a few days of driving developed a knocking/ticking noise and by searching through this forum was able to figure it out it was the flexplate and nothing more serious. Now I'm starting to order parts and get ready to do it and I'm wondering if it is necessary under any and what circumstances to replace the bolts or if I should just reuse the old ones. No one has really said anything about getting new ones but don't wanna have to wait another week waiting for 5 bucks in bolts.
Also I plan on doing the ball joints as one is bad and I will be taking them apart anyway in the process (plan on removing ball joints and just moving transmission back and not full removal of the transmission)- And again am wondering if it is necessary to get new bolts and nuts for the ball joints. This I've heard is recommended but for all nuts and bolts needed its over $20.
I don't want to seem like a cheap-a** just saving every little bit helps for future repairs down the road.

Any input or advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks-Nate

Crazy_pilot · #2 10-01-2008, 01:39 PM

I replace nuts and bolts almost any time I'm taking things apart, but my car has seen 16 hard winters and the hardware is all pretty ugly. For the ball joint, the three bolts into the control arm are pretty heavy and solid. Mine old ones looked fine in the protected spots. Re-using them probably wouldn't have been a problem. But the pinch bolt (the smaller one that goes through the knuckle) is pretty thin, so that one I would change.

1986nate · #3 10-01-2008, 01:45 PM

I just double checked and none of the bolts/nuts have any rust at all but I do see what you mean about the pinch bolt being pretty weak comparatively to the flange bolts.

1986nate · #4 10-25-2008, 05:12 AM

Where are the alignment pins located between the engine and transmission? And how do you make sure its all lined up correctly? I definitely don't want to have to go through this again in the near future?

gstape · #5 10-25-2008, 07:57 AM

Quote:

Where are the alignment pins located between the engine and transmission? And how do you make sure its all lined up correctly? I definitely don't want to have to go through this again in the near future?

There are two studs that come out of the engine to help start the alignment, and then there are two dowels located a little ways above the studs. THey could either end up in the transmission or the engine when you pull it.

1986nate · #6 10-25-2008, 09:23 AM

okay, thanks