Splittin Image Motor Swap - How to do it ?

**HD DON** · 05-12-2008, 12:24 PM

Need some input how to remove a splittin image motor from a donor without damaging the motor and donor.
And the correct way to install it... Thanks in Advance ---

DON

**dreem dezignz** · 05-13-2008, 02:03 PM

Hi Don.

My friend, if you're asking about the re-tooled casting for the 'IMAGE
that first appeared in the 1993 AnniversarySeries, you may have more
of a challenge. Those securing tabs under the engine and half-way back
through the length of the tail-pipes are melted just inside the metal casting
so the engine cannot simply be loosened and removed. Besides, those tabs
do not line-up exactly (with the holes for them) to the original 1969 version.

... ... ...

Now then...if you're indeed talking about that original 1969 version, thenyou
may be in for a pleasant surprise. That engine can be gently coaxed up & out of
its 'nest'...but go slow, so the tail-pipes don't get bent...or the chrome damaged.

In the past, I've found it best to start rocking the engine sideways (from the front
central extension...that ribbed 'box'). This rocking motion will begin to 'lift' the tabs
under the engine up, then out of their holes. Using a plastic shim...maybe a piece of
plastic dinner fork...as a fulcrum under the end of the tail-pipes, will then assist the
whole thing...all in one piece...to 'lift off' with still more patient coaxing. (Some of
those engines had a tighter fit than others...while others would simply 'lift-off' if
ya just called them a dirty name.) Then...if ya feel you would like to have the
engine/pipes re-chromed...try CHROME-TECH USA. They use the similar
vacuum-form chrome-deposit process. And their quality is wonderful.

Re-installation?...a cinch!...you'll simply place the new engine
flat down into its 'nest' and gently push. The tabs should
self-secure. Consider wearing cotton gloves, so to keep
the oil from your fingerprints off the chrome-plating.

Be patient as you proceed, Don...you'll succeed.
Best of luck to you.

Jeffrey

**HD DON** · 05-13-2008, 08:25 PM

Hey Jeff, Thanks for the tip...Just like butter it popped off and I snapped it right into the minty splitter that had no motor.
Now I have 1 really nice splitter (redline)....

TKS
DON