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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1976 Ford Gran Torino

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Expert: - 7/10/2011


Question
I have re-built the engine of my 1976 Ford Gran Torino but it when fitted to the transmission it will not turn over. Engine will turn over on its own  It is an automatic transmission.
I'd be grateful for any advice?

Answer
It sounds like the torque converter is not seated properly in the front pump of the transmission. There are two ears on the hub of the torque converter and these need to be fitted into slots in the front pump on the transmission. If these are not aligned before installing the engine then when the engine is bolted up it will bind. With the transmission in the car it is a bit difficult to align these parts as the converter is heavy and you need to jiggle it in and out while turning to align and engage the ears with the slots. When you have it properly aligned the converter will set deeper in the bell housing. One note here, it might be wise to remove and disassemble the front pump and heck for possible damage.  

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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