I have an XFR with both head gaskets blown. I intend to remove the engine with transmission and subframe from below. Has anyone any experience with this procedure?

 

No but we do have some free factory workshop manuals and if you don't have several I would download them now.
On the XJ forum there are at least 3 in the top section of the forum in the stickies section.
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Thanks but they don't do it the way I want to.

 

check out thread from davetibbs, there have been a few engine removals, but not sure any with tranny intact.

 

Dropping subframe with engine and trans intact is s standard method on many cars. It's how I did it on my Saab

 

Yep - the only method the Workshop Manual details is to pull the transmission from underneath, separating it from the engine, and then lift the engine out of the top with a crane, which is how I removed mine.

However, it's entirely possible to remove the engine, transmission, and subframe as one from the car and lift the car up to separate them - the method is pretty much the same across all cars, which is to unbolt any front suspension (e.g. strut towers, wishbones, etc) from the body of the car, and then unbolt the front subframe from it, remove transmission mounts and disconnect driveshaft before lifting the car up. There's probably a lot of things you've got to watch for with hoses, cables, etc being fixed to the body before you can lift the car but it's definitely possible as I've seen photos of it done.

I guess it's just less common because people are more likely to have (or be able to rent) an engine crane rather than have access to the entire 2/4 post lift required to lift the car up enough that you can pull the engine out from underneath, but it doesn't make it any less valid a removal method.

 

Yes, I was thinking that is probably how they are assembled in the factory so should be easy to disassemble that way. Maybe even the radiator, wiring looms etc may come out with the assembly. That is how it is on a Range Rover but the complete body comes off the chassis with those. I am going to remove the exhaust system and driveshaft today first then see how it looks but I can only see four subframe bolts and a gearbox mount so initially it looks simple enough.

 

And out she comes.....

 

Fine work Sir!

 

NIIIICE!!!!!

 

Let the checking begin......