Crankshaft bolt, any ideas

[Deleted]

I have to remove the crankshaft bolt, it's an automatic so using brake peddle is not an option.

I have tried using air wrench but my compressor is just not powerful enough, only 50ltr DIY jobbie that doesnt get above 6bar.

I have read that it can be done by wedging wrench and bar on the ground and then using the starter motor to free it, anybody tried that ?

My drive is on a slope so I do not realy want to go too far under the car which is what I would need to do if I tried removing the starter motor and wedging the fly wheel.

Anybody got an idea ?

[Deleted]

Hmmmm.

[lib]

Don't use the starter motor method by wedging the bolt breaker bar against the ground, as there is not normaly enough torque to overcome a tight bolt. The motor will be damaged.
Using the starter motor method is a last resort and is brutal. The breaker bar is positioned as far above the ground as is feasible then operate the starter so that the breaker bar is flung into the ground. This is dangerous and it relies on the sudden stop of the engine to jar the bolt free.

Jamming the flywheel ring gear is the best option. If my memory is correct I think that you can see the ring gear, just, without removing the starter motor. An hexagon shafted screwdriver or allen key is preferred rather than a round shaft. Less chance of slippage.
This works on a 2cv too if you haven't got a timing rod to insert into the flywheel hole.
Finding a good length of pipe to get extra leverage on your breaker bar is a good idea.

Good luck.

ps heating the bolt is possible but never tried it myself.

[lib]

Well he made that look easy, too easy.

Had a word with mate who is still working and he has used heat as a last resort and it works. Heat really hot, cool and retry to unfasten.

[Deleted]

Well I thought S** it.

Disconnected ignition system, placed wrench against subframe with a wooden wedge to hold it, one click on ignition key and WAHEEEEEEEEE, bolt loose.

And to finish the day the new coil springs have arrived.

[Fli]

Good news pandj so glad its now coming together.

Its been a good day with the 3CV too

[Deleted]

May 30, 2012 15:16:23 GMT 1 Fli said:

Good news pandj so glad its now coming together.

Its been a good day with the 3CV too

I assume it passed then ?
(just read your post, congrats)

Do you know Ali has promised me a ride in it

[lib]

Well done pandj, brave man.

PS have Fli grease the suspension points in the Acadyane before you and Ali have a ride in it. Very embarrassing when parked up and it starts squeaking and groaning ...........