How hard is it to remove the transmission from a 90 civic without removing the engine?
Can it be done? Is there enough room to wiggle the trans off the clutch and out the bottom?

 

Yes, it comes out the bottom. Tilt the engine down some for more clearance if necessary.

 

Anyone want to explain how this is possible?

Quote:

Notes: A broken or missing ground strap could cause the new cable to fail. Always inspect, clean or replace existing ground strap. 62.25" cable length.

 

If the electric current from the starter can't return to the battery through the ground strap, it will seek other paths. Such as the clutch cable, which isn't designed to carry electricity.

 

Well I seem to have all the bolts undone but still cant separate the transmission from the engine. Any pointers for common missed bolts or something else I am forgetting.
The bolts that hold on the starter don't go all way through to the engine do they?

 

Well yes the bottom starter bolt does go all the way through to the engine.
Now just to figure out how to remove the shift linkage from the transmission.
I had disconnected it back at the shifter till the transmission was out.

 

Yes the starter has to be removed, but you already figured that out.

It's usually very difficult to get the linkage pin out at the transmission. Most people just undo the bolt back at the bottom of the shift lever and leave the linkage attached to the transmission. If you're just replacing the clutch you may be able to leave the linkage attached and set the transmission on the ground, but be careful not to stress anything.

 

Well I am replacing the transmission.

 

Other options:

Grind off one of the rivets in the u-joint and replace it with a bolt.

Open up the transmission and take the selector shaft (with linkage attached) out and swap to the other transmission.

 

Got a 5 speed outa civic 4 door, they didn't charge me extra for the linkage.