Quote Originally Posted by blk97gt View Post
Hi there to all you chevy lovers

I just bought a 1997 Grand Prix... The engine is knocking very bad and there is metal in the oil. The previous owner said it needs new ball bearings on the crank. The oil pan wont come off because the frame is in the way. I bought a cherry picker and engine caddy today and I want to give this baby a new lease on life. I am going to be buying the manuals and what not next week to take out the engine. couple of questions for yall:

How do i know if i have a real GTP (besides the s/c duh) i heard 97's VIN shows just GT

Can the engine be taken out from the top?

Anyone local to me (ocala, FL) that could help me with a couple things to make my life easier?

thanks ahead of time
with my car i spun a rod bearing which caused a really lloud knock from the top of my piston hitting my head. you are prolly going to have to buy a new short block or do what im doing a complete rebuild. i would not run the car anymore so you dont cause anymore damage. Yes the motor came out the top and for the exception of a few clips and one bellhouing bolt the engine came out pretty easy. i hope this helps,