Removing the gearbox.

[Gavin]

i believe it is possible to remove the gear box (Pre unit) from the bike without taking the motor out. anyone done this? and if so can you step me through the process from the point where all bolts and chain are removed, the box wobbles freely, but i can't see how to continue the process from here... it's in a 51 plunger frame. Thanks.

[muskrat]

G'day Gavin, I don't believe you can. I remember back in '81 when I got my '51 I tried for two days with no success. Since then I have taken the whole lump out together many times, not such a hard job.
Cheers

[Gavin]

Thanks Muskrat, I have managed to get it out. But to do so needed to support the motor, remove the bolts to the frame and nudge the motor forward and upward about 1/4 inch each way... then the box came out freely. As I will get a rebuilt box back I'll be needing to take the motor out for that reunion to happen. So I have only gained time which I needed, and the small satisfaction of seeing that I can still be just as determined as ever !!!

[A10Boy]

Well done for removing your gearbox.

I couldn't help noticing on your photograph, there's a large amount of blue silicone on the timing cover gasket area, propably the same amount inside, you should beware of that as lumps can break away and get stuck in oilways - or heaven forbid, in the PRV. I know there is no direct route from there but i would respectfully suggest you check it hasnt been gunged all over elsewhere.

Paper and cork type gaskets only need a smear of grease and they will be fine

[Gavin]

Thanks mate, but I fear the Photo is a little bit deceptive. The blue you can see is actual gasket paper, same colour as all the gaskets in this particular kit. Hopefully that will assure you that not too much goo has been used. Yep, maybe I should trim that extra bit of gasket, but for now getting it going is the primary concern. The cosmetics can happen a little later.