The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Paint and Body Shop Removing Front Clip from 54 3100

I need to remove the front clip as in both front fenders and front grill radiator assembley. If I remember right someone told me that it is easier to remove it all in one piece. is that true? and can anyone kinda walk me through it.

Mike

We removed the front clip as you described from our 53 3100. Took hood off first. Unbolted the radiator support and upper radiator valance and removed the radiator . Unbolted the lower valance and bolts from the fenders to the cab. We put jack stands under the fenders and grill area. Undid all the wiring. It took 3 people to lift it off.It went quick.

Coach-frank seem to have covered everything. If you don't need the hood off now leave it there. It's no fun to re-align and it will give you an idea where the fenders used to be when re-installing. Removing the bumper helps as you don't have to lift so much when removing the clip but it's not necessary. Be sure to remove all bolts holding the inner tubs to the firewall and use 3 people minimum so you don't twist the rad support. Good luck.

Curt B.

wonder if an engine puller and slings would work? ill need to start to disassemble mine in the future, so you got my brain to working

The whole clip weighs less than 250 lbs. so I think an engine hoist would only be in the way as you moved it away from the truck. You still need 2 people holding the back of the fenders. You could try to lift it off by yourself with 3 lag rings screwed into joists in a triangle and 3 ropes but you would have to roll the truck while lifting. My wife had no problem lifting off her corner so just yell for her and 1 neighbor when you have all the bolts are out. (or any combo of 2 neighbors , 2 wives, etc.) 2 big guys can carry it thru a gate vertically if you're moving it out of your way.

Curt B.