Reffiting engine and body on S1

[AlfaSpider]

When i stripped the car I took the engine out first before removing the body. I’m just wondering whether I can put the engine in first and then the body back on?
I’ve seen photos online of the body coming off with the engine in situ but wasn’t sure if there was a difference between S1/2/3
I imagine it would be very close between the back of the engine and the bulkhead.
Thanks

[glenrobbo]

Yes it is possible, but you have to remove the distributor cap ( maybe the whole distributor, but mark it up for position before you do so ).

Possibly nearside rocker cover as well for extra clearance

The body needs to be lowered onto the chassis with the rear high up at a rather steep angle, then lowered forwards and down, rather like putting a shoe on.

[phillpot]

I imagine this is how they were assembled at the factory, i.e. complete chassis and engine assembly built up then the body dropped on?


Not saying it won't perhaps make things easier but can't imagine the factory messing about taking the distributor out and I really can't see how taking a rocker cover off will help? ....

Edited by phillpot on Sunday 24th June 20:13

[magpies]

although I have a different engine, it looked easier to fit the full drive train before the body - 6 persons and it proved fairly simple

and the body lifted on

[AlfaSpider]

Thanks It certainly looks like an easier job to fit the engine first and get all the plumbing sorted, then maybe remove the dizzy and a rocker cover. I didn’t want to get the engine in only to have to remove it again!

[TVRees]

I can also confirm that the body comes off and goes back on with the engine in place.It is a good idea to remove the distributor cap, as this gives a little more space for maneuvering.

[greymrj]

For me removing the distributor is worth it because clearance is tight and the distributor is very vulnerable if the body hits it. So protect the distributor. I would NOT remove the rocker cover, I'd be much more worried about getting muck in the engine than the cover getting damaged or in the way.

[Kitchski]

As has been said, it's possible with engine in.

I'd actually go one stage further and say it's much EASIER with the engine already fitted, and I can't for the life of me work out why someone would try and fit the engine after the body has gone on!

Edited by Kitchski on Wednesday 27th June 10:03