another bellhousing question

["Dean W. Cains" <dwc@domain.elided>]

Hi Group:

Last night I was removing parts from the Spider in an effort to replace the 
cracked bellhousing.  When I tried to remove the two topmost bolts holding 
the bellhousing to the block, I discovered the original bolts and nuts had 
been replaced with large hex-head wood screws.  I can turn the screws, but 
the holes in the block are stripped (what a surprise!) and the screws won't 
back out.  I may be able to get a screwdriver under the hex-heads and apply 
pressure while unscrewing them, and hopefully they'll come out that way.  I 
had planned on just pulling the gearbox, while leaving the engine in place.

My question is regarding the holes in the engine block.  They have probably 
been slightly enlarged by those nasty screws and the proper bolts may fit 
loosely in the holes, perhaps allowing some movement.  Should I drill the 
holes and insert some sleeves so the bolts fit snugly, or just not worry 
about it?  The holes in the bellhousing aren't an issue, since a different 
bellhousing will replace the cracked one.  Nonetheless, one cracked 
bellhousing is enough for me.  Any suggestions?  It appears that the 
original bellhousing may have cracked for any of several reasons;  wrong 
starter bolts (i.e. no shoulder bolt), missing stud from exhaust side of 
engine, and those two aforementioned loose and stripped screws.


Regards,

Dean W. Cains
dwc@domain.elided

'74 Spider Veloce
Lutz, FL

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