Can the GM turbo400 transmission be removed without pulling the engine?

[Jim S]

My transmission in my 72 Avanti is leaking badly in the front.  I see several drops of fluid coming out of the small hole at the botton of the bellhousing cover.  I had two transmission mechanics tell me the front seals on those trannies seldom go out.   My front seal and the front pump bushing  was replaced  just a few months  ago. Yet it's leaking again badly! It was very difficult for this 70 year old to pull just the engine a few months ago and I really don't want to do it again.  I want a shop to do it, so again my question is can they just drop the trannie clear of the X frame.  Or do they have to pull the engine?  Never have I had a  more troublesome car than the two GM power train Avantis.  If I can get this thing fixed and sold, I am going back to pure Studebaker!!

[mfg]

2 hours ago, Jim S said:

My transmission in my 72 Avanti is leaking badly in the front.  I see several drops of fluid coming out of the small hole at the botton of the bellhousing cover.  I had two transmission mechanics tell me the front seals on those trannies seldom go out.   My front seal and the front pump bushing  was replaced  just a few months  ago. Yet it's leaking again badly! It was very difficult for this 70 year old to pull just the engine a few months ago and I really don't want to do it again.  I want a shop to do it, so again my question is can they just drop the trannie clear of the X frame.  Or do they have to pull the engine?  Never have I had a  more troublesome car than the two GM power train Avantis.  If I can get this thing fixed and sold, I am going back to pure Studebaker!!

Yes,  the trans can definitely be removed without removing the engine/trans assy… but availability of a twin post lift would sure make the job easier!

[Jim S]

Thank you for the info. I will have a reputable trans.shop doing the work. They should be able to handle it.