Pontiac Repair: removing engine 2.2L manual tran, ecotec, speed 2

Question
ok so i have to remove the engine in my 02 grand am and i was wondering if i had to take the Trans out with it to put it on the other engine it a 5 speed 2.2l ecotec and everyone says that i will have problems trying to put the other engine in if i do not pull the Trans out at the same time

Answer
Hi Charles:

Good question. I have never taken and engine out of one of these cars with a manual transmission. they are right you will have a hard time lining the clutch up but if you take the balancer off the front of the engine it will give you a few extra inches you will need. I don't think the space is gonna be a issue just trying to line it all up will be the problem. You don't need to make any extra work if you don't want to. but if you want to do it this way take out the whole engine subframe with the engine/transmission/sterring rack all in big package that is if you have acces to a lift just lift the body off the subframe if not then doing just the engine out the top is the way to go. good luck. just a nother FYI if this has a lot of miles on it i would replace the clutch and pressure plate and throw out bearing all at the same time you don't want to have to change that in a year. good luck :}