Using a car body roller with Engine/gearbox in

[oldmod1968]

Hi, I am about to use a car body roller to weld under the outer sills and just in front of spring hanger. Any photos or tips please? Chris

[DAVIDMCCULLOUGH]

Should be no problem with the engine and box in. Just make sure you leave enough room to roll it and have at least 3 people to help lift, one on the front wheel one on the back and one in the middle who jacks it up as far as it will go and then all push at once.<br><br>

[rayofleamington]

for welding the sill 'at the top' I can't see a problem as long as the majority of the structure is ok. If the car needs more than a couple of localised repairs then my preference would be to have the engine and box out as they load the shell up.
For replacing a chassis leg, you'd be very well advised to remove engine and gearbox. For other areas like sills and rear spring mounts with engine in place my advice would be to spread the weight of the car on a few more points (e.g. 3 or 4 more) using jacks etc.. so that not a lot of weight goes through the suspension. With the weight more evenly distributed there's less risk of the shell going out of line.

[oldmod1968]

HI, thanks for response. In yr experience assuming all bolts come undone (my front panel has all new nuts and bolts) how easy is it to get the enine and gearbox out? Chris

[bmcecosse]

Very easy. With front panel etc removed - it can just be 'jacked' over the front chassis cross member - you don't need a crane.
If leaving the engine etc in - there will be quite a side load on the front chassis leg through the suspension - if not in great condition - it may collapse.

[dave220452]

Hi Dave here,
from my experince in rolling minors I advise draining both engine and back axle of their oils as it sometimes
seepsout, When you least expect it usual over night and what a mess it makes.
Also if possible put an old seat base under the side of the car to help support the weight when its lay on its side.
If you are going to weld the under neath have someone keeping a eye on the inside assuming you have stripped
it out already the heat from welding can travel quite a distance.
Best Regards

DAVE

[beero]

I am about to do this as well. I have removed the engine though. How sure are you about the strength of the engine mounts? They are only bonded and I would hate to imagine what would happen if they parted!
Also, stating the obvious, have you removed the battery and sealed the master cylinder?