When fitting the gearbox for the 5th time this evening.. all went well. The bellhousing went straight up against the block, and I was then able to attach the torque converter to the driveplate through the access panel in the box. Access in there is tighter than a ducks doo-da.. but I got there.
The engine would then spin freely on the crank pully, and I could hear the torque converter moving. I'm sure you're dying to know what the problem was?
Well... although I HAD lined up the torque converter with the Dogs, it wasn't sitting right back on them properly. So credit goes to Markie (who was with me for the 5th attempt).. for using a "persuasion tool" to get it back further in the box. This did the trick.
So, all bellhousing bolts tightned, breather fitted, electrics fitted, linkage fitted, selector switch fitted, cats and exhaust fitted, O2 sensors fitted... propshaft and prop coupling fitted.. gearbox back on mounts...
I am alive, well, and have the use of all my limbs!
My arms and legs feel like they are hanging off, my hands are scrached to peices, my face has been covered in ATF.
And I just realised that, I've been so wrapped up in the car, that I've not eaten for over 36 hours!!!!!
Changing a gearbox on your own 4 times over, for no result, is not any fun... but at least I've had a workout.. and this has certainly been a learning exercise for me!
I now feel very good about myself!
The icing on the cake is.. I've taken it for a short run.. and it's NOT in limp mode, and is changing through the gears very well. So if that remains well... then the old box must have been shagged.
Next job, which it needs NOW, is an Auto fluid change.
So, the plan now, is get some grub, and drink a beer or 10!!!
Mark, thanks again for your ongoing help and support
Matchless - thanks for the ideas about the Dogs.. you were certainly very close!!
If this continues to behave itself, then I will do an ATF change, get my Elite 16" wheels on.. and I will have a VERY sorted Elite!!