2x4 across rear deck + rope or w.h.y. attached to engine should support it.

The flywheel end of engine likely has to be lowered a little to allow
tranny to clear the subframe. Watch for any undue strain on parts
connected to engine. Raise and secure engine to normal position when
tranny out.

I had a look at the Long Enterprises CD of tranny rebuild images.
Interesting stuff.

TIA for any pics or info you have on the rebuild!

Neil.

On Tue, Aug 10, 2010 at 8:51 AM, Robert Downes <bobdownes@gmail.com> wrote:
> WELL! i'd like to thank all on the list for the sound advice. After talking
> to some helpful gentlemen at various vw rebuilders, i determined that my
> problem is most likely the pinion shaft 'double tapered bearing'. so, i have
> a pretty complete rebuild kit(including about $400 just in tools) on the way
> from long enterprises and i'm getting myself psyched up to get all up in
> some dang gearbox! WOO!
>
> so here's a good discuss-o-question: what kind of setup do you use to
> support the engine while the trans is out? i have to roll the van out of the
> shop while i work, and i'm sure i'll figure something out but do you folks
> have any super cool, non-obvious tricks? is it worth it to fabricate
> something like the tool shown in the bentley manual? it doesn't seem like
> there will be all that much weight to support, will there?(my van is diesel)
>
> updates/pictures to come
> thanks again, dudes
> -bob
>

--
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"

http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines