wheatpj

Will be bit necessary to raise the engine to remove the harmonic balancer on my 454? There doesn't appear to be a lot of clearance between the balancer and the cross member on my 71. If so, does anyone have any advance on how to raise the engine enough to gain clearance? I don't have an engine lift.

Thanks Pat

L88Plus

Can't help with clearance question, but if it does pose a problem, you might try lowering the tail end of the tranny to angle the engine upward since you don't have a hoist.

Mooser

One mine I can't get the balancer out far enough to come off without running into the frame.
Consider dropping the tail of the trans to tip the motor a little (you don't need much) If the car is an auto, dropping the crossmember or on a manual maybe remove the tail mount ?
M

I typed too slow so I'll add a on dropping the tail a little
M

wheatpj

Will the engine tilt enough with the front motor mounts in place?

Mooser

You don't need much but I'd pull the bolts and just stick some 1/4" ones it to hold everything, that should give you enough room and not pull on the mounts.
Don't forget to watch the distributor, no room back there with the cap on and wiper motor in place.
M

wheatpj

The answer is, the engine needs to be lifted (or tilted). I can clear the key-way, but I can’t the balancer off the crankshaft snout. I need to lift the engine about a half inch. So I brought myself a lift (mostly because I wanted one). As long as I have it this fall apart, I think I will pull the front cover and check the condition of the timing chain and sprocket. I will replace engine mounts too.

Cavu2u

Beware: The risk of oil leaks will rise if you do.

Steve