1999 5.2L 318 SLT

Hello, can someone tell me how to remove the skid plate below the catalytic converter to get the factory converter out. All the screws to the plate is out. I would be hitting two rod on each side if I try to hammer it down. What am I doing wrong?

 

I think the "skid plate" you're talking about is the transmission cross member. Once you loosen the 4 bolts holding it to the frame and the 4 bolts holding the cross member to the transmission mount you can slide the cross member back and the frame gets wider so you can turn it to remove it. Those two rods in the way on either side are the torsion bars and unbolting those from the rear helps in removing the cross member. And trust me you'll need every little bit of help you can get removing the cross member, it's a very tight fit and you have to do everything just right to get it to come out. Taking the transfer case off helps greatly.

But then again I don't really see why you would have to remove it to get the cat converter out. For exhaust work just cut and weld. Good luck.

 

Thanks, I took the 4 bolts to the frame and 4 bolts from the transmission mount. But it only slide back an inch or so. I end up cutting it off. I just want to figure it out how to get it out. So when the new one arrived, I know how to put it back in. Now I have no clue

 

There is torsion on the bars at the frame, you removed the "support" cross member. You need to take the weight off the front axle and you should be able to move it back whilst supporting the transmission.

 

All i did was remove the transfer case and mine slid right out.

 

Well that's the easy way......

 

Yes and No, the NV242 is to heavy for one person to do there self.. esp if the splines are being a PITA to line up... with 2 people tho id agree.

 

I got it in. I had to jack the tranny up a few inches to clear the 4 tranny bolts. Then I could hammer the crossmenber as far back as I can. slide the converter from front in. But had to cut one heat shield bolt in back short for it to slide all the way in.It was way too long and blocking the convertet from going all the way. All done! Thanks for the help and suggestions.