I seem to be having a problem getting the transmission & TC fitted onto the drive plate (flywheel). Everything bolts on fine, but once I torque the initial two lower transmission mounting bolts the BLACK METAL GASKET (between the drive plate and engine) seems to butt right up against the drive plate. So, when I go to turn the crankshaft the engine is locked up and I cannot even get the rest of the torque converter bolts on.
Yes, I double and triple checked that the torque converter is properly seated.
Yes, I torqued the transmission bolts precisely to specs. (47 ft lbs.)
Yes, I took off the whole transmission and TC and inspected the drive plate. When the transmission is off there is some clearance between the drive plate and the BLACK METAL GASKET, however the distance is not exact all the way around, nevertheless, there is some clearance.
Yes, the old transmission bolted on and the crankshaft turned fine (else I wouldn’t be able to get the TC bolts off).
Yes, when I loosen the transmission bolts and back the transmission back a little the crankshaft will turn, but then there’s a minute space left between the transmission and the engine!
Here are the specs on the vehicle: 1997 Toyota Corolla 1.6L base model, 3 speed automatic transmission (4AFE). Looks like the transmission I am installing has been recently rebuilt, it’s very clean and still has stickers.
Any help would be much appreciated, John A.