While replacing the CPS one of the bolts fell through a hole in the transmission/transmission housing.

Any ideas on how to retrieve the bolt or if it's easier to get a replacement? Really kind of stuck and don't want to drop the trans just to fetch this bolt.

 

Pretty sure your '96, guessing that because of your profile, takes the same one that my '00 takes.
Part # 6503520.
I bought 2 new ones when I did mine from the dealership.
As far as the falling in the bell housing part that I can't help with.

 

Take off the bell housing inspection plate. Probably sitting right there. Don't leave it.

 

X2! Dont leave it. Unless you want a new tranny anyway. It might take a min to get out... but it's easier than a tow home and full swap out.

 

You may have to turn the converter by hand to get it to drop out. Use a screwdriver or pry bar on the gear teeth. It turns a lot easier if you take out the spark plugs.

 

Won't come out unless you pull the starter.

That's why I do this. Old guy trick.

 

Listen to this guy! He knows of what he speaks.

 

Thanks for all of the replies. Took some elbow grease but we took the inspection panel off and retrieved the bolt.

Is there a cover for that hole (that doesn't include a swear word or two)? I've looked around trying to find one, I seem to see some kind of cover on some for sale, but can't find a part/part number at any retailers.

 

What cover are you talking about that you can't find the part number for

And when you guys say "inspection panel" what do you mean?
The flex plate cover?

 

Right below where the CPS bolts on there's a hole, where one of the bolts fell through.

Bellhousing inspection cover plate

 

So I think this is what you are talking about.
52117660

https://www.moparpartsoverstock.com/.../52117660.html

And where is the bellhousing inspection cover plate?

 

Nope. This is the plate. Located at front of bellhousing

This is the hole

 

You misunderstood.
The hole you put the square around in the second picture is where the part that I linked goes.

And the first picture is what I call a flex plate cover so that answers that.
Thought that is what you meant but wanted to be sure.
In case this ever happens to me. LOL.

 

Gotcha. That picture of the grommet is bad. It looks huge to me. I'd suggest a new name for it, "Hole reducer". Hard to believe it's acceptable to have an opening of any size in that spot.