I have been trying to remove the auto transmission (transaxle) on my son's 2002 Sebring LXi convert with 2.7 engine. The front seal gushes fluid. I have it loose, but when I get the converter free enough from the flex plate and its collar, it bumps into other parts underneath that are not readily removable. I figure there is a trick to getting it out and back in. Everything is unbolted and disconnected. Anyone know how to do this? We've been working on this for several weeks. Any ideas are really appreciated and needed! Thank you, George

 

Per the shop manual, you'll need to remove the engine mounts and lower the whole engine-transmission assembly enough to unbolt it and get it out. It involves removing the steering gear and everything else that's in the way. You would probably be well advised to invest in a shop manual or at least a Haynes manual for some guidance.

 

I have been referring to a Haynes manual. However, it did not mention removal of the steering gear (I assume the steering gear assy. with the cross member, right?). It did mention very generally to remove any other suspension in the way.One question. It has not had the water pump nor timing chain replaced. Since I am going this far am I better off to remove the engine and transaxle, do all of the work and re-install it?
Thank you for your help!! George

 

If you can get the engine out it'll be a lot easier to work on out of the car, obviously. Any job that is easier to do is more likely to be done right. You need to drop the whole sub-frame although people claim that they can pull the engine out the top. I'm not the guy that could guide you through that operation.