How to: SOHC V6 Block Cradle removal/installation

1. Remove the oil pan.

2. Remove the oil pump pickup tube.


3. Remove the bolts.


4. Remove the rear lower block cradle bolts.


5. Remove the 8 inner bolts. Discard the washer shields.


6. Remove the outer bolts and nuts.


7. Remove the ladder frame and the gasket.

Block cradle installation

1. NOTE: Inspect the integral oil pan gasket for cuts or damage that may cause leaks. Install a new
gasket if necessary.

All sealing surfaces must be cleaned prior to assembly. Use metal surface cleaner to clean the
sealing surfaces.

2. NOTE: Gasket material as well as silicone sealant may be present in the cavities in the main bearing
cap. This material must be removed completely prior to assembly.

Clean the sealant from the cavities on the rear main bearing cap.


3. CAUTION: Failure to back off the set screws can result in damage to the lower block
cradle.

NOTE: The set screw is shown from the top (crankshaft) side of the lower block cradle.
Back the set screws off until they are below the lower block cradle boss.


4. NOTE: If the block cradle gasket is not secured within four minutes of the sealant application, the
sealant must be removed and the sealing area cleaned with metal surface cleaner. Allow the metal
surface cleaner to dry until there is no sign of wetness, or four minutes, whichever is longer. Failure to
follow this procedure can cause future oil leakage.
Apply silicone in the six places shown.


5. Position the lower block cradle and gasket assembly.


6. Install and hand-tighten the outer 20 bolts and 2 nuts.

Block cradle installation (continued)

7. Install and hand-tighten the rear lower block cradle bolts.


Note: The lower block cradle to the cylinder block alignment must be within a maximum mismatch of 0.25 mm (0.01 inch) lower block cradle underflush or 0.05 mm (0.002 inch) lower block cradle protrusion.

Using a straightedge, align the transmission face of the lower block cradle with the face of the cylinder block.


8. If engine is in vehicle install the two rear lower block cradle-to-bell housing bolts.


9. Tighten the outer bolts.


10. Tighten the rear lower block cradle bolts.


11. Tighten the eight inserts.

Block cradle installation (continued)

12. Install the two silver covered bolts and new washer seals. Hand-tighten them at this time.


13. Install and hand-tighten the six remaining bolts.


14. Tighten the lower block cradle bolts in two stages:
 Stage 1: Tighten to 15 Nm (11 lb-ft).
 Stage 2: Tighten to 33 Nm (24 lb-ft).


15. Install the oil pump screen cover and tube.


16. Install the oil pan and gasket.

Great thread Dale, it's very helpful to a lot of people.

Yes it is

Oh god... is this what my next Sunday looks like?