Getting ready to drop my 426 Hemi in a 67 GTX. I normally install the engine and trans as one piece. But with the Hemi I am installing it from above, engine and bell housing only, I will install the trans from the underside.

I plan on removing the brake booster and the steering column has been installed, I was hoping to drop it in with the stock exhaust headers, any comments and suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks Bob

It will be much easier without the exhaust manifolds, in fact leave off any bolt on parts that you can.

I have to disagree here. Why wouldn't you install as much as you can on the engine before it goes in? Saves time, get's things done nice and tidy. Will also save the engine compartment from getting banged up.

Your proposal might be fine for a smblk or Bblk install, but the HEMI is a very tight fit in ANY application, I usually like to install from the bottom up, but have done HEMI installs from the top, if going in from the top, no exhaust manifolds as suggested, you might even find yourself removing the valve covers depending on the style used and how much you might have to move the engine around to sit it on the mounts, you'll need to lose any booster/master, you might even have to remove the front shocks as the studs might hit the heads/covers going in...

Installed it all from the bottom. You’ll just nick stuff up from the top.

I put one in from the top all assembled with cast iron manifolds and it worked just fine with 2 people. No nicks or scratches. The steering column was not in the way. The battery tray was in the way and needed to be removed.

I believe the bellhousing will make it more difficult. I'd remove the bell and try it with the clutch and PP installed. These are much bigger engines than a 440.

If you are using stock valve covers the whole thing will fit from the bottom and you can slip a sheet of cardboard in on each side to keep from scratching the inner fenders. It is tight.

Keep in mind, I didn't say it can't be done with manifolds on (I've done it), just that it would be easier with fewer bolt on parts in the way (done that as well).

These days if restoring a car I wouldn't even consider anything but all up from the bottom as an assembly. If working on a race car or something beat up, sure why not, but not something with new paint and other detailing. .02

Exactly: It's been a few years for me but it seems to me you can do it with the manifolds on. I seem to remember dropping it down sideways a bit and then swinging it around a few inches into place. Honestly I would install the left manifold in the car (with just the right engine mount secured and the left side lifted a bit) and leave the shocks out. Also pad the inner fenders with thick blankets.

Here's how I put mine in.

What engine hoist is that? Looks waaay beefier than what I've seen before.

So ask yourself what is easier/better. Bolting everything on the engine, getting some skilled help and slide the whole thing in complete with no damage.

OR, you can put in the bare engine and bolt everything on in the car leaning over the fenders.Try your best for the next 2 days not to scratch anything and get it all sealed up and leak free while assembling this in the car.

How are you going to get the orange overspray on the exhaust manifolds and fasteners while assembling it in the car??

How are you going to get those exhaust manifolds bolted up without scratching anything? These are large and heavy and they mount with bolts that point down to the floor, you can just slide them over a stud and have them stay put like any other Mopar V8.

It is not vey hard to install the complete engine in the car with zero damage. Lube the wheels on the engine hoist, get on a flat smooth and swept concrete floor. Have a skilled and physically strong person helping you. Have good lighting so you can see what you are doing. Don't be in a hurry. It works just fine.

I didn't want to line up and push the 4 speed from the bottom, so I took some time and put it in as one piece. No damage, wrapped all possible areas with moving blankets.

Went in from the bottom on my 68 GTX. All the accessories, exhaust manifolds, starter, carbs, and air cleaner installed. Had to remove the right side valve cover. A lot easier to pull that valve cover than the steering box.

This way.

this worked just fine

I have always gone in from the top minus exhaust manifolds/Headers with no issues. (Note: if using Headers, set them down in the engine bay first. Depending on brand and tube sizes they will not go in without a fight).

I installed a hemi in My 67 R/T without any trans. From the top...no issue with steering column or battery tray. Even had the hood on with the hinge bolts loose to give a little extra room. I installed TTI headers after..not a big deal

Mine definitely wasn't going in without taking the hood off.