front clip removal

[chadriley5]

has anyone ever removed their front clip ie grill, fenders, core support , and hood ? will it come off in one piece like a chevy truck? installing 350 chevy vortec with 4l80e and np241 transfer case.would it be worth the time it takes to remove the clip to make it easier to weld in mounts and install running gear all in one piece

[jpsnblood]

yes sir
I am in the process off putting in the 350/t98 for the last time.
The dog house out of the way makes it so much easier!
Just unbolt hinges from firewall , 2 bolts for core support.i think it was just 2 bolts on the innerfenders,and 4 or 5 bolts at the back off the fenders. un hook some wires radiatorhoses/ heater hoses. there you go!
The only disclaimer is that I will be painting the jeep after I finish so any little scratches did not matter much to me.
I am using a Transdapt crossmember motor mount.
It worked out real nice.
good luck

[Tomahawk715]

I second that--taking off the clip makes it much easier to work on--had everything off the front in less than an hour without much effort.

[spgirard30]

I did the same for mine.. with 3 people I had the truck down to the bair frame in about 2 hours. If I recall though there are 1 or 2 bolts on the bottom part of the fender/rocker area that gave me a little trouble.

[randyscycle]

Yup. Pull out the bolts at the rear of the fenders, not forgetting the ones under the fenderwells, and the two at the botom of the core support. Pull everything as one unit. A whole lot easier and you can actually get to everything.

[chadriley5]

i appreciate the input thanks guys

[brute4c]

Heres a thread with more details...especially by Barrman:

Clutch Chatter?

[chadriley5]

removed front clip today was very easy only had 2 bolts break the ones in the very bottom of fenders. engine removal was a breeze.i would recommend this 2 anyone doing a swap or anything major in engine compartment. i also loaded it on the trailer to take it get a steam cleaning