Differential insulator removal tricks?

[sdyck]

I've dropped the transverse link and strut assembly out of my '72 240Z to change the bushings and stuts/shocks.  I also have the differential supported at the front and the cross member out. While I was at it I thought I'd change the differntial insulator.  There's no way I can get a socket on the bolts due to teh design of the insulator and its almost impossible to get a 17mm wrench on it.  I could grind away some metal to get a socket on the insluator bolts but that doesn't help me with getting the new one on.

Has anyone removed one without dropping the differential? Any tips or tricks would be great.

Thanks,

Steve

Edited June 14, 2016 by sdyck
fix

[Zed Head]

Support the transmission and drop the crossmember by removing the single nut in middle and the bolts on the sides.  Then the insulator nuts will be exposed.

Actually not really sure what you're trying to do.  What help would it be to drop the differential anyway?

EDIT - your title says diff and your text says transmission.

Edit 2 - you can let the nose of the diff hang down on the mustache bar to get a wrench on the nuts above.  It's very strong spring steel and well bolted on.

Edited June 14, 2016 by Zed Head

[sdyck]

Thanks for picking up my error , tt is the Diff not the transmission. I will try and let the nose of the diff hang down and see if I can reach it. 

 

Steve

[sdyck]

Got it! Thanks for the tip Zed head, I was able to get a wrench in the nuts in top and turned the bolt from below with a crowfoot wrench end on a short extension. Worked like a charm. 

The insulator is in better shape than I expected. I think it must have been replaced at some time in its life.