T18 Installation question

[j10builder]

I'm being paranoid and freely admit it. Engine (360) and trans out of truck. Flywheel resurfaced, new clutch, throwout bearing etc. I aligned the clutch with the new pilot bushing with the provided tool, installed the bell housing and went about the task of mounting that monster transmission. I got it on and managed to get some threads started on each of the 4 bolts and slowly and carefully cinched it in. It went in ok but I'm so used to putting in a trans I can lift and seat completely on my own that this felt strange. Here's my question, Is it possible to push the pilot bushing in accidentally if the tranny is misaligned? I was carful to go slow and use a crosspattern when I tightened the 4 bolts but....it's a "in the back of my mind thing" that's gnawing at me ya know?

[Stuka]

As I recall, the pilot bushing can only go in about 1/8-1/4" past "flush" with the surface of the crank. So I don't think you have to worry about it going in so far that the input shaft won't be supported by it.

[j10builder]

Thanks! That's EXACTLY what I needed to hear to avoid pulling the trans off to look and satisfy my Mechanical Assembly Paranoia Syndrome.

[SJTD]

T18? How about the NV4500. Hate to even think about a 5600.

When installing a trans I make some rods a bit longer than the shaft to guide it in.

[j10builder]

I should've thought of that. I make guide rods for other types of installs. Would have been a good way to go.