Omega Owners Forum

Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: Marie on 16 February 2008, 23:20:47

Title: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 16 February 2008, 23:20:47
here is the pictures of the gearbox change carried out today, still a few other jobs to do under the car before she comes off jacks and we can road test her. we had to stop due to it being dark. gutted as we were on a roll.

long hard day and i cant get the smell of ATF out my hair. my arms are aching already and james says he wont ache for a few days yet but hey start again in the morning! ill keep you all posted......

(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb1.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb3.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb2.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb5.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb4.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb6.jpg)
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb7.jpg)
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Ken T on 16 February 2008, 23:25:29
Very impressive, well done  :y :y :y

I've been putting off adjusting my handbrake, cause of the weather. Guess I haven't got an excuse anymore !.

Cheers Ken
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Craig_R on 16 February 2008, 23:31:46
Great Work Chaps You must be mad as it was Mega Cold Today Brrrrrrr.

Craig
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Crazydad on 16 February 2008, 23:40:28
looks like a lot of work   :y :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: albitz on 16 February 2008, 23:42:32
did one last easter,you have my respect and sympathy :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Debs. on 16 February 2008, 23:43:38
 :o Jeeesh!.....you guys deserve bravery-medals working out in the cold today. :o
Can`t wait to see pics. of your Meega on the move again Marie! ;)

Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: The Elite on 16 February 2008, 23:47:08
Good work, just one question, was there an explosion in your toolbox?  ;D
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: zippo on 16 February 2008, 23:47:18
how could you smile or was that you teeth chattering
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 16 February 2008, 23:48:50
Yes, it has been a very productive day.

Started at about 1pm. By 6pm, we were pretty much done, all bar the ATF, Catalytic converter, and the snag we came across when the prop coupling wouldn't fit  ::)

So, quick trip to halfrauds, to get a deep reach 30mm socket. I then sorted out the prop coupling problems, while Marie set about removing the gearbox sumps.  (I don't think she appreciated my taunts about finding a thrust washer in the new gearbox sump ;D )

With the gearbox sumps cleaned out, re-fitted with an initial ATF fill, filter changed, and the prop happily connected, we set about fitting her brand new GM) cat converter. Bit of a pain, but got there between us.

We started her up and there is drive in forwards and reverse gears, so that's enough for tonight.

I must say, this is the first time I've been accompanied by lady under an omega with a hair full of ATF ;D

The hardest part I found in the whole job was getting the bolts through the flex plate into the torque converter, we used some good grease to hold the bolts in the sockets. The location of the access hole in the block on the X20XE is shocking, it is a really fiddly job, and if you drop a bolt you are completely stuffed. We had a good production  line though, I was swearing at the bolts while Marie was fighting against the compression strokes.. and eventually we got the six of them in :)

Jobs for tomorrow.

Re-check and rectify ATF level.

Fit different exhaust bracket on the gearbox to support the exhaust (this box came off a V6)

And that's all the under-car work done.

Following that, we are doing cambelt kit, aux belt, and water pump, and then a full and thorough service.

We did notice a manifold stud missing when the box was off, so we rectified this, and it's now silent from cold  8-)

We've had really good day at it, very productive all bar a couple of managable snags, and FANTASTIC weather for the job.

Tomorrow will be an easy leisurely day by comparison.

Am now sitting in Marie's living room, sinking some stella - Early start tomorrow  ::)

Oh... and I strongly recommend the axle stands we bought for this job, they are excellent !
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: zippo on 17 February 2008, 00:04:34
Quote
Yes, it has been a very productive day.

Started at about 1pm. By 6pm, we were pretty much done, all bar the ATF, Catalytic converter, and the snag we came across when the prop coupling wouldn't fit  ::)

So, quick trip to halfrauds, to get a deep reach 30mm socket. I then sorted out the prop coupling problems, while Marie set about removing the gearbox sumps.  (I don't think she appreciated my taunts about finding a thrust washer in the new gearbox sump ;D )

With the gearbox sumps cleaned out, re-fitted with an initial ATF fill, filter changed, and the prop happily connected, we set about fitting her brand new GM) cat converter. Bit of a pain, but got there between us.

We started her up and there is drive in forwards and reverse gears, so that's enough for tonight.

I must say, this is the first time I've been accompanied by lady under an omega with a hair full of ATF ;D

The hardest part I found in the whole job was getting the bolts through the flex plate into the torque converter, we used some good grease to hold the bolts in the sockets. The location of the access hole in the block on the X20XE is shocking, it is a really fiddly job, and if you drop a bolt you are completely stuffed. We had a good production  line though, I was swearing at the bolts while Marie was fighting against the compression strokes.. and eventually we got the six of them in :)

Jobs for tomorrow.

Re-check and rectify ATF level.

Fit different exhaust bracket on the gearbox to support the exhaust (this box came off a V6)

And that's all the under-car work done.

Following that, we are doing cambelt kit, aux belt, and water pump, and then a full and thorough service.

We did notice a manifold stud missing when the box was off, so we rectified this, and it's now silent from cold  8-)

We've had really good day at it, very productive all bar a couple of managable snags, and FANTASTIC weather for the job.

Tomorrow will be an easy leisurely day by comparison.

Am now sitting in Marie's living room, sinking some stella - Early start tomorrow  ::)

Oh... and I strongly recommend the axle stands we bought for this job, they are excellent !

i reckon thats a beer well earned for the both of you. According to a
car mechanics magazine that's meant to be a common problem(?) I've not heard anyone mention it before tho
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: MaxV6 on 17 February 2008, 00:22:50
James , my friend, you're a class act, and a star, but sometimes, I wonder if we should have you sectioned and locked up in a padded cell for a few days to get some well earned enforced rest !

I think we might have to look at the Sintra as a Spring time project////    just to keep you on your toes with things that aren't Omegas...   but are familiar enough to be confident with.....  

it'll make a change from working out on the road/pavement as well...   :D


see you next weekend mate.,

Max

Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: psl on 17 February 2008, 07:47:43
wow, do you run on duracell or somthing you just seem to keep going and going......

Good job, sounds like you deserved that drink  :y

I keep puting doing mine off,what with the weather (and scared of making it worse) still got to be done sometime. If your in surrey any time soon your welcome to lend a hand ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 08:16:14
Quote
Good work, just one question, was there an explosion in your toolbox?  ;D

that was james, ;D ;D nightmare ;D i coulnt find anything i think some how my tools have endded up in his box!!! well it was late when we finished.

oh and we are just waiting for the sun to roll round on the car and then were back to it! oh and its colder today then yesterday was!!!!
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 17 February 2008, 08:17:49


Quote
Quote
Good work, just one question, was there an explosion in your toolbox?  ;D

i think some how my tools have endded up in his box!!! well it was late when we finished.


Cheek... She put most of them there ;D
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Dave-C on 17 February 2008, 09:37:26
-6 in Stoke and gotta do some Punto brake pads, dreading it....  I think you guys are bl00dy brilliant..  Well Done :y :y :y :y


"All for the love of the Meega"

DC :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Andy B on 17 February 2008, 10:21:53
Quote
.......
I must say, this is the first time I've been accompanied by lady  ..... with a hair full of ATF ;D .....

It's a good job ATF is red then!  ::)  :y  :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 17 February 2008, 12:10:11
Pictures were amazing..

Really good job you do there.. :y

First time I see a woman working under a car.. :o (and wife too was in shock in time see you ;D)

We really appreciate your work..And you James :y

Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 13:42:47
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Auto Addict on 17 February 2008, 13:53:03
Quote
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)

 :y :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Andy B on 17 February 2008, 14:08:23
Quote
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)

We never doubted you both.  :y Does it fly now?  ::)  ::)  :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Varche on 17 February 2008, 14:50:39
Stirling job.

You didn't happen to make a DVD while you were doing the change?

If you didn't we can make one when we do my gearbox in the summer!

varche
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: MutantCav on 17 February 2008, 14:52:39
James, as your recommending the axle stands where did they come from? And where did the pro looking jack come from?? Need some better stuff that the bits I have :)
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 17 February 2008, 14:54:14
Quote
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)

 :y :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: TheBoy on 17 February 2008, 14:58:59
Excellent news :y

Bit worried about the gay wolly gloves though James :P


Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Crazydad on 17 February 2008, 16:58:57
God i wish i could comment on your posts, its like a gold mine for a comedian, but i will be a good boy, and keep it all to myself, i hope ;D ;D
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 17:50:24
well boys and girls, i am so chuffed, what a great result. my body doesnt agree with me at the mo though ;D ;D ;D

started early this morning around 9 am as you can see.....
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb8.jpg)

we found a few snaggs today aswell (trust my luck) but they are all fixed and another omega lives to fight somemore!!! She drives so much better and you can feel the power difference. She purrs now and is so quiet under the hood. love it!

We found that the cambelt was incorrectly alined, (good call james on getting it changed) it was out by 2 teath which would account for the hesitation and power loss when towing the trailer.(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb10.jpg)

Hubby has just walked in from taking her for a spin, he is well happy now! bl00dy should be i have been the one stuck under the car all weekend! ;D ;D

the side repeaters got changed today too, they look great and dont stick out anymore like a sore thumb!

She had a complete service today all by the fuel filter which i need to purchase the tool to remove and fit the bugger.

i only have two jobs left to do with her..... put her through her MOT next month which James recons she should have no snags, and set about her with a clay bar and some wax to tidy the body work up. going to have to wash her again as she is covered in finger prints.
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/marieroffey/gb9.jpg)
had a small pair of hands helpin me today too, got to watch my son like a hawk though he trys to sort the pant work out with a screw driver :o :o :o

Thanks again to James and all that have advised me along the way. Couldnt have dont it with out you! :)

Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 17 February 2008, 17:51:32
Quote
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)

Indeed it is.

This morning, we did the little bits, and I kindly let Marie have the pleasure of another mini ATF shower.

We had a bit of time left over this morning, so I did the cambelt kit, water pump and aux belt too, while Marie changed the spark plugs. We then did a full engine service.

She's definately running a lot quieter since we put the 10/40 oil in there, the previous stuff was quite thick. The lifter noise is now much reduced :)

(I recommend a few regular oil changes for further improvement)

Oh, and we sorted out the hesitation problem too. I'll let Marie tell you exactly how many teeth the valve timing was out by originally  ::)

Test drive demonstrated that it pulls very well in all gears, no nasty noises, and smooth changes.

So this weekend was a sucess.

Beer time  [smiley=beer.gif]
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: TheBoy on 17 February 2008, 17:55:09
Marie - sounds like it needs some frequent oil changes (250 mile) for a few times, gradually extending out to 3k.

If you haven't already, get a TC card, making oil changes cost less than a tenner for genuine Vx stuff :)
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 17 February 2008, 17:56:00
Yep, recommended some regular oil changes :)

And she's nicked Mr DTM's trade card  ::)
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Crazydad on 17 February 2008, 17:57:03
Congratulations to both of you on a job well done :y :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 17:59:00
Quote
Quote
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)

Indeed it is.

This morning, we did the little bits, and I kindly let Marie have the pleasure of another mini ATF shower.

We had a bit of time left over this morning, so I did the cambelt kit, water pump and aux belt too, while Marie changed the spark plugs. We then did a full engine service.

She's definately running a lot quieter since we put the 10/40 oil in there, the previous stuff was quite thick. The lifter noise is now much reduced :)

(I recommend a few regular oil changes for further improvement)

Oh, and we sorted out the hesitation problem too. I'll let Marie tell you exactly how many teeth the valve timing was out by originally  ::)

Test drive demonstrated that it pulls very well in all gears, no nasty noises, and smooth changes.

So this weekend was a sucess.

Beer time  [smiley=beer.gif]

Got home ok then, enjoy your Stella you have earnt it mate. oh and thankyou again. oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 18:00:27
Quote
Yep, recommended some regular oil changes :)

And she's nicked Mr DTM's trade card  ::)

I didnt knick it :o he lent me it mine will be here within a week and ill return Marks back to him!
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 17 February 2008, 18:00:32
Quote
Quote
Quote
ITS DONE!!!!!! :) :) :)

Indeed it is.

This morning, we did the little bits, and I kindly let Marie have the pleasure of another mini ATF shower.

We had a bit of time left over this morning, so I did the cambelt kit, water pump and aux belt too, while Marie changed the spark plugs. We then did a full engine service.

She's definately running a lot quieter since we put the 10/40 oil in there, the previous stuff was quite thick. The lifter noise is now much reduced :)

(I recommend a few regular oil changes for further improvement)

Oh, and we sorted out the hesitation problem too. I'll let Marie tell you exactly how many teeth the valve timing was out by originally  ::)

Test drive demonstrated that it pulls very well in all gears, no nasty noises, and smooth changes.

So this weekend was a sucess.

Beer time  [smiley=beer.gif]

Got home ok then, enjoy your Stella you have earnt it mate. oh and thankyou again. oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D

Yep just walked in ... we ran out of fuel on the A34, but thankfully I had a splash of petrol in the tank, which got us to newbury ;D

Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 17 February 2008, 18:01:04
Oh, and your hair is gonna stink for a week ;)
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: TheBoy on 17 February 2008, 18:01:12
Quote
oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D
Pleasant smell, isn't it ;D


Joking aside, soaked head in bath for a while, then washed hair using fairly liquid (a decent degreaser).  Obviously, being a chick, you probably treat your hair better though :P
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 18:03:06
Quote
Quote
oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D
Pleasant smell, isn't it ;D


Joking aside, soaked head in bath for a while, then washed hair using fairly liquid (a decent degreaser).  Obviously, being a chick, you probably treat your hair better though :P

im used to it with my job OM 15 and AVCAT smell worse. the only snag at the mo is Shane keeps tellin me i SINK.
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: TheBoy on 17 February 2008, 18:04:55
Quote
Quote
Quote
oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D
Pleasant smell, isn't it ;D


Joking aside, soaked head in bath for a while, then washed hair using fairly liquid (a decent degreaser).  Obviously, being a chick, you probably treat your hair better though :P

im used to it with my job OM 15 and AVCAT smell worse. the only snag at the mo is Shane keeps tellin me i SINK.
Not sure how to break this to you, but he's right, you do ;D
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 18:19:05
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D
Pleasant smell, isn't it ;D


Joking aside, soaked head in bath for a while, then washed hair using fairly liquid (a decent degreaser).  Obviously, being a chick, you probably treat your hair better though :P

im used to it with my job OM 15 and AVCAT smell worse. the only snag at the mo is Shane keeps tellin me i SINK.
Not sure how to break this to you, but he's right, you do ;D

Might have to go for another shower then!!!!
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: TheBoy on 17 February 2008, 18:27:23
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
Quote
oh and my hair still sinks thanks.........  :D :D
Pleasant smell, isn't it ;D


Joking aside, soaked head in bath for a while, then washed hair using fairly liquid (a decent degreaser).  Obviously, being a chick, you probably treat your hair better though :P

im used to it with my job OM 15 and AVCAT smell worse. the only snag at the mo is Shane keeps tellin me i SINK.
Not sure how to break this to you, but he's right, you do ;D

Might have to go for another shower then!!!!
if he's complaining about smell, ask him to join you so he can wash properly. I'm sure he'd gladly help you :P
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 18:30:41
i tried that the wee boy screamed his head off cos he didnt want a bath
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: TheBoy on 17 February 2008, 18:35:15
Quote
i tried that the wee boy screamed his head off cos he didnt want a bath
my mistake, I assumed you were moaning about the old man ...
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: VXL V6 on 17 February 2008, 18:39:11
Top job both! I can't believe how much can be achieved in little more than a day  :y

All I could manage today was to adjust my handbrake... Freezing but at least the exhaust was warm!

ATF stinks for sure but it's not as bad as the stuff that's in the Diff.
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 17 February 2008, 18:39:28
Quote
Quote
i tried that the wee boy screamed his head off cos he didnt want a bath
my mistake, I assumed you were moaning about the old man ...

bless him but i wanted some me time to chill out. spoke to my old man tonight he asked about the car and didnt beleive me when i said i fixed it with and excellent hand/guide.
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Tony H on 17 February 2008, 18:42:49
A good job well done peeps :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: CaptainZok on 17 February 2008, 18:44:08
Result  :y :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Entwood on 18 February 2008, 21:20:15
Well done the pair of you ....  :y :y

and Marie .. some folks find the smell of OM15 or OX27 alluring ....... ;)

(I'm not one of them mind .... I much prefer Chanel .......   :)  )
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Bo Bo on 18 February 2008, 21:29:36
Quote
Well done the pair of you ....  :y :y

and Marie .. some folks find the smell of OM15 or OX27 alluring ....... ;)

(I'm not one of them mind .... I much prefer Chanel .......   :)  )
Depends on who's wearing it....
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Dazzler on 18 February 2008, 21:51:58
Top job by you both, well done :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Jukeboxnut on 18 February 2008, 22:18:09
Congratulations, you have done  a sterling job on your gearbox change etc my wife does not even like looking at the car let alone work on it (mind you she is French).

I must be getting soft in my old age, it's far too cold to work on the car this time of year despite the luxury of a garage.

What I have got though is a spare tool for changing the fuel filter that you are welcome to have (my dad got me one not realising that I had already bought on the same day).  It is a fiddly job on the estate and you are in danger of a face full of petrol -I nearly blinded myself last time I did it.

I am in Bognor which is not far from Gosport so let me know if you want it (give me an email).

Colin
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Martin_1962 on 18 February 2008, 23:51:21
Well done it was freezing this weekend - I wish I had not left the fan heater in the caravan!
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: JamesV6CDX on 18 February 2008, 23:52:22
Quote
Well done it was freezing this weekend - I wish I had not left the fan heater in the caravan!

Wouldn't have swapped those two days under the car for anything, it was a right laugh  8-)  :y
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 19 February 2008, 08:18:01
Quote
Quote
Well done it was freezing this weekend - I wish I had not left the fan heater in the caravan!

Wouldn't have swapped those two days under the car for anything, it was a right laugh  8-)  :y

I Agree hard work but a great laugh. ;D ;D ;D have to do it again sometime just minus the gearbox change ;D ;D as the hubby says we can catch up at a meet somewere some time.
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marks DTM Calib on 19 February 2008, 08:22:53
But........is the gearbox now silky smooth?
Title: Re: Maries Gearbox change
Post by: Marie on 19 February 2008, 17:06:30
Quote
But........is the gearbox now silky smooth?

oh yeh..... sweet as :) it was worth all the hard work.
pleasure to drive her again.

Before i used to get in the car and worry she wouldnt get me from A to B but now i dont even think about it.  :y

She is so much more responsive with me....... standby those boy racers cos i can give them a run for there money again!!! ;D ;D ;D