Trans rookie

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Originally posted by ORNG UFO:
Can anyone give me step by step procedures for changing the throw out bearing on the Pantera trans?

I'm just a rookie at all this stuff, but may be able to handle it if it is not too complicated to the point where I could potentially make things even worse.

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Check the tech section of http://www.PanteraPlace.com

First, remove the ZF from the Pantera. The unit is 155 lbs and often greasy underneath, so don't 'macho' yourself into an emergency ward trying to do it alone or without an engine crane! The ZF has two bolts inside the bellhousing, so the trans and bellhousing must come off together. The halfshafts need only be unbolted on the ZF sides, then shoved out of the way. The gearshift shaft is disconnected at the end of the box attached to the ZF, not in the middle. The speedo cable is unscrewed from the rt angle adapter. Do NOT attempt to remove the adapter!
Once out, set the very expensive trans on a strong bench, where it can't tip over nor fall to the ground. The throwout is captured under a hairpin retainer spring on the nose of the trans: be sure you understand how its held in there (taking a photo or making a sketch), then just pull it off and replace with a new one. You'll have to screwdriver the spring arms into position on each side, which is why the sketch is necessary. Before you return the assembly to the car, take a few minutes to work some grease into the needle bearings at each end of the throwout cross shaft. These have not been greased since your trans left Germany, maybe 30 years ago! You'll be surprised at how much better the clutch works! Its also an ideal time to drain the trans and add fresh 90wt-for-posi diffs to the box. Check the drainings closely the ring gear bolts sometimes loosen then shear. If you find a bolt-head or two, the bottom cover must come off but the fix is inexpensive.