Tub bracing for removal

PaulK · Post by **PaulK** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 2:16 pm

Hi,

I am just about ready to remove the tub. Does the tub have to be braced before removal and if so what is the best method. BTW is it easier to use something to pick it off the frame or can a couple of guys do it.

Thanks,

Paul

davem201m38 · Post by **davem201m38** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 3:27 pm

Hi,
Once the floor plates are off and the tailgate, wings, windshield the tub can be lifted off easily with muscle power.
My good lady wife and myself lifted mine off.
I couldn't pull the steering wheel and was worried about damaging it; so I left it in place and we managed to lift the tub off over the top.

At this stage mine didn't need any bracing but if I was about to start cutting and removing bigger sections I would put bracing in, from reading other peoples experiences I guess I was lucky and got by without it. As for where? depends on what you're cutting out.

To start I would deffinately brace where it mounted to the chassis (as if it was still attached to the chassis) and across the tailgate. Then one across about where the seat backs would be. You could then drop verticles if needed or add crosses.

Good luck,
Dave

tdavis · Post by **tdavis** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 3:57 pm

I did not brace mine (my M38A1. The M38 may need bracing across tailgate). I used straps through the floor plate hole in front and then hooked straps to the rear seat brackets - so four points (2 front, 2 rear). I did remove the steering gear first. I then used an engine hoist to lift it, but I had to try several times and adjust the straps to get a level lift. Yes, a couple of stout guys can lift it. I was by myself, so I used my hoist, but I could easily man-handle it by myself. I guess that once you have everything stripped off it maybe weighs 200lb?

I then built a dolly using 2x6 lumber and 4 casters and, using the engine hoist again, stood the tub on its rear end on the dolly and put some screws through the rear and used straps from the top of the tub to eye bolts on the 4 corners of the dolly to stabilize.

davem201m38 · Post by **davem201m38** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 6:09 pm

Couple of stout guys???????? we obviously breed our women of stronger stuff here in the North of England!!

rdsar2k · Post by **rdsar2k** » Mon Jan 21, 2008 8:17 am

My brother and I lifted my M170 tub off over the steering shaft - steering wheel removed. Not bad at all. The tub is stiff.

Cacti_Ken · Post by **Cacti_Ken** » Mon Jan 21, 2008 8:36 am

PaulK · Post by **PaulK** » Mon Jan 21, 2008 5:05 pm

Thanks everyone for the help. The tub comes off tomorrow.

Regards

Paul