[beertracker]

As part of camshaft replacement I have to remove the crankshaft pulley on my Pontiac 400. The engine and auto trans are in the car. How do I prevent the engine from turning over when I remove the bolt holding the pulley on to the crankshaft?

BT

[GMC boogie]

Got an impact wrench? You could also strike a breaker bar with a hammer to break it loose.

[327NUT]

Yes you could do that...but if you break the bolt head off you're screwed! If you have a buddy get him under the car and have him hold a BIG screw driver or pry bar up against the teeth on the flywheel starter ring. Then use the bell housing as a leverage point, should hold the crank till you get the bolt loose.

[302 Z28]

You could also use some bolts to screw into the balancer after the pulleys have been removed. Usually two bolts so you can insert a pry bar to prevent the crank from turning when you try and back off the big bolt. Make sure however that you screw the smaller bolts fully into the balancer or they will damage the threads. Also make sure that the pry bar is up against the balancer.

Vince

[T-bucket23]

Breaker bar with a hammer. One good smack will usually do it. I have done this hundreds of times. On a lot of cars there is no room for an impact gun unfortunately. A tight fitting 6 point socket is the key. I have never broken a balancer bolt removing on this way.

[cobalt327]

Originally Posted by beertracker

As part of camshaft replacement I have to remove the crankshaft pulley on my Pontiac 400. The engine and auto trans are in the car. How do I prevent the engine from turning over when I remove the bolt holding the pulley on to the crankshaft?

BT

Be aware that bolt was (supposed to be) torqued to 160 ft/lb.

[topwrench]

I grab one of the puller legs with a big crescent wrench or use the screwdriver in between the puller deal, if standard trans put it in first gear and lock up the emrg brake and turn away, the bolt is supposed to have 160LBS' so be carefull with the smacking breaker bar deal.

[heyjude076]

Anyone ever try a long breaker bar that jams against the floor then bumping the starter? Saw a "mechanic" do this at a truck stop once. I tried it once on an Escort and it worked but usually use the screwdriver against the flywheel.