4.0 removal with automatic trans

ccjeeptj

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Aug 18, 2022
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New Hampshire
Have swapped 4.0 from speed into another five speed with no problems. Have been asked to swap a 4.0 with auto trans…Looking to see if anyone has specific information on how to separate torque converter while/before separating trans bell housing from engine? Thanks in advance
 
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Remove the bolts that connect the torque converter to flex plate.
 
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Remove the lower access panel.
Remove the 4 bolts holding the flex plate to the torque converter.
Pull the transmission.
 
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Remove the bolts that connect the torque converter to flex plate.
Is there a way to remove the bolts between the torque converter and the flex plate before I separate the engine and transmission bell housing? Is there a way to access those bolts prior to separation?
 
Is there a way to remove the bolts between the torque converter and the flex plate before I separate the engine and transmission bell housing? Is there a way to access those bolts prior to separation?

Yes, as JMT stated there's an small access panel between the back of the oil pan and the lower front of transmission bell housing you'll need to remove so you can get to the four bolts. The bolt heads are on the motor side of flex plate and you'll need to rotate the engine to access all of the bolts. Do forget to disconnect the battery!
 
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Pic of the lower access panel. 3 bolts

IMG_2871.jpeg
 
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Here's a link the the service manuals thread and I highly recommend finding the year TJ you're working on and download it for reference.
https://wranglertjforum.com/threads...ice-manuals-fsm-technical-documentation.4618/

After motor/trans separation, make sure to leave the torque converter secured in trans. You don't want to create more problems for yourself by damaging the seal. Also not having the torque converter engaged fully and back far enough upon reassembly.