1. Preparation is Key:
* Safety First: Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. Use jack stands to securely support the car – never work under a car supported only by a jack. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including sockets (metric), wrenches, a torque wrench, a pry bar (plastic or nylon preferred to avoid scratching), jack stands, and possibly a transmission jack (highly recommended). Consult a Fiero repair manual for a complete list of specific sizes.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A factory service manual or a reputable aftermarket repair manual specific to your 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT is crucial. These manuals provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions. This is not something you should attempt without one.
* Drain Fluids: Drain the engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid (if applicable; depending on what you're removing).
2. Disconnecting Components:
This is the most labor-intensive part. You'll need to disconnect numerous components connected to the engine cradle, including but not limited to:
* Exhaust System: Disconnect the exhaust manifolds and pipes from the engine and the cradle.
* Wiring Harnesses: Carefully disconnect all electrical connectors attached to the engine and transmission. Label wires if necessary to avoid problems during reassembly.
* Fuel Lines: Disconnect the fuel lines; take precautions to prevent fuel spills.
* Brake Lines: If applicable, disconnect any brake lines attached to the cradle.
* Steering Linkage: Disconnect the steering linkage components from the rack and pinion.
* Transmission: Depending on your goal, you might need to separate the transmission from the engine and the cradle. This usually requires specialized tools and knowledge.
* Radiator & Cooling System: Disconnect the radiator hoses and any other cooling components attached to the engine or cradle.
* Mounts: Remove the engine mounts that secure the cradle to the chassis. These are usually bolts.
* Other Connections: Various other components may need disconnecting, depending on the specifics of your car and why you’re removing the cradle. Refer to your repair manual.
3. Lowering the Cradle:
Once everything is disconnected, carefully lower the engine cradle using a suitable jack and jack stands. This step requires caution to avoid damaging components. A transmission jack is extremely helpful here, offering better control and support.
4. Removal:
Once the cradle is sufficiently lowered, you should be able to carefully maneuver it out from under the car. Be mindful of any remaining connections or obstructions.
5. Reassembly:
Reassembly is the reverse of the removal process. Pay close attention to torque specifications to avoid damaging components.
Important Considerations:
* Transmission Removal: The process is significantly more complex if you need to remove the transmission along with the cradle.
* Rust: On older Fieros, rust can make bolt removal incredibly difficult. Penetrating oil and a lot of patience are your friends here.
* Professional Help: If you lack the experience or tools, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic. Improperly removing the engine cradle can cause significant damage to your vehicle.
This is a simplified overview. The exact procedure will vary depending on the specifics of your car and the reason for removing the cradle. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1986 Pontiac Fiero GT before attempting this repair. Failure to do so could result in damage to your vehicle or personal injury.
