A slight addition to Rick's post, in case it's not obvious, is that the
crankshaft must be rotated to locate the first bolt, then turned to the next
one, etc.  Just turn till the bolt comes into view through the hole, then
find a socket to fit.  I believe a deep well socket might just be the ticket
so that the ratchet wrench can work close up to avoid removing FI parts.

Bill Knight

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@vanagon.com]On Behalf Of Rick
Koller
Sent: Friday, November 20, 1998 1:35 PM
To: vanagon@VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Engine removal

>
>
Ian,
        I did this in my '91 and its probably basically the same for your
engine
except for what may be in the way on top of your crankcase. The torque
converter is bolted to the carrier plate with these bolts. I was able to
put a socket on the bolt through the hole and loosen and remove them. It
helps to keep the torque converter from moving. There is definitely room
for a socket but as I recall its a tight fit and I had to hold it on
squarely and securely with the ratchet extension while I broke it loose.
You may have to remove fuel injection components to be able to access the
hole properly, I didn't with the wasserboxer. After the bolts are removed
and you drop the engine make sure you have the torque converter secured
somehow so you don't pull it out with the engine. It will pull right out
and if it does you have to reseat the pump shaft properly (see
Bentley/Haynes) BTDT. After reinstalling the engine and rebolting the
torque converter use some "locktight" compound on the 3 bolts. Hope this
helps.

Rick Koller
'90 syncro-westie
'91 auto box