SM465 top cover removal, in truck?

[mpascino]

Is it possible to remove the top cover from the trans while it is still in the truck. I have a 1991 burb, I know I have to cut a huge whole in the floor but it's better than pulling the trans again... The clearance looks tight between the dash and for some reason it appears the trans is further forward than the photos in the tech article. Anyone ever heard of a shift/top cover causing a bad rattle/noise? Thanks,
Mike Pascino

 

[mechted]

you shouldnt have to cut a hole in the floor... that section unbolts on 4wd's and manual 2wds...unless you have an automatic 2wd hump (welded in)
yeah i guess you can pull it out that way, just make absolutely sure its in neutral when you pull the shifter, and dont make it shift while pulling the cover of the tranny

 

[big83chevy4x4]

the tunnel is removable, but i think that the newer ones were glued in instead of bolted in.

 

[mpascino]

no tunnel on the later models, just one large stamped floor. I will have to be cut. Any ideas if it will fit out the top?

 

[dyeager535]

To be honest, I don't think you can pull it up straight far enough. The way the dash, heater, etc. is right there, I don't think you'd be able to maneuver the whole plate enough to remove it. Nix that. Just went out to the truck and looked at mine. No carpet or anything, so it's pretty clear. It looks like it may actually fit. The heater stuff is going to be close, but the metal of the dash should be far enough away for it to be possible.

My '86 tunnel IS removable, but it is tacked in place, plus sealant, instead of bolts like older ones FWIW.