TheSamba.com :: View topic - AAP Trans to EJ25 vancafe mounts- need ideas to clear on install

Sat Sep 13, 2025 2:36 pm

Looking for a little help from the brain trust.

I have an 094 (aap) transmission on the transmission jack ready to install into my ej25 motor (still in the van) which is held up with a VanCafe mount, which gives me no downward tilt. Nose mount on the transmission in not installed for maximum clearance.

The 4 speed was very tight coming out, so I expected this problem, but was hoping the tilt of the trans jack would allow me to get into position and then jack it up. No go. Im just short of clearance on the nose of the trans to the cross member with the studs in position and slightly in the transmission.

Looking for ideas to reinstall as smoothly and easily as possible.

1) I could attempt to lower the back of the motor by undoing the two rear subframe mounts while supporting the motor on my jack table. Jack table at its highest is lower than the trans at the lowest on the trans jack. So I would need to come up with a cradle or something for more lift on the jack table.

2) I could remove a small amount of material inside the bell housing stud holes to give more clearance.

3) I could return to doing what doing and get some more muscle to try to slide the transmission into place.

Thanks for any insights and trying to avoid dropping the motor fully.

Sat Sep 13, 2025 4:36 pm

You could try what I do when pulling boxer tranny's.
Replace the rear most carrier bar to body bolt on each side with slightly longer ones.
Leave them loose 1/2 inch. Support the engine with a jack.
Remove the other 2 bolts.
Lower the jack to let the engine down by 1/2 inch, using the 2 longer bolts to let the engine hang lower and pivot a little as you lower the transmission.
When the tranny it tilted down just enough, put a support under the engine so it stays put while you slide the trans out.

Of course hoses and wires etc must be watched as you lower things.
The exhaust too, like the muffler tip.
My experience with this is wbx, not Subaru so assume nothing.

I also leave the longer bolts in place for next time.
The 1/2 inch is just a starting point, more may be needed.

Mark