My release bearing is making a LOT of noise, so I need to change it. Since I'm in it that far, I will also change the clutch. Is it a total pain with the motor in, or should the motor/trans come out?

It is quicker to pull the motor/trans together unless you have a lift/hoist available.

if youv'e done it a few times its takes about one hour on jack stands thats alot quicker than pulling a motor if its your first time I would say threeto four hours to be safe and is still Quicker than pulling the motor and trans out.

a mate with decent biceps can help when getting the box back in place. even though these little boxes dont weigh much its still easier if you line the box up and he holds it and pushes it in.

be careful when getting the tailshaft out of the back of the box (if you need to) because oil will poor out of it. best to have a few rags there to plug it back up.

Thanks gents,

I've changed plenty of clutches back in the muscle car days, but haven't done it in a while. I know if I pull the engine, I will want to paint and detail the engine compartment, then I'll want to fix the oil leaks, then maybe clean and paint the motor. Before you know it, my commuter car becomes a resto project!

For now, I'd just rather fix it and drive it...