installing new trans.

[97rs]

my auto trans went bad and i am in the process of installing a replacement. i noticed tonight that the left transmission brace is missing (there are 3 trans. braces and then the trans. support). is this going to screw something up if i dont get one?

[BillyCobin]

What brace are you talking about? The braces that hold the torque converter cover on?

I really can't imagine what three braces you are talking about?

[97rs]

in the haynes manual there is a left and right trans. brace, and then another one you have to remove the lower motor mount bracket to take off. they are right at the front of the trans. and held on by 3-4 bolts

[BillyCobin]

My haynes manual doesn't say anything about left and right braces or anything about removing the lower engine mount.

The only thing I can think of is the brackets on the torque converter cover. Here is a picture. Are you talking about the black bracket down towards the bottom of the picture?

[97rs]

yea thats the bracket that is missing. are you sure your looking at the 97-98 3.8L for the lower engine mount thing?

[BillyCobin]

Yeah, I rebuilt the transmission in my 96 and I didn't have to mess with any of the engine mounts. My Haynes manual says it is for 93-97, and doesn't mention anything about engine mounts.

As far as that piece missing, if you have gone this long without it, then you are probably ok. I would still find someone who is parting out their v6 and see if you could get one for a couple bucks though.