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Rotating engine in the car?

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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 11:25 AM
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Default Rotating engine in the car?

All,

I need to rotate my engine (fully assembled in the car) in order to check my lifter preload (one more time). Has anyone found a box end wrench or rachet/socket combo that will work (i.e. doesn't interfere with the steering rack)? I've tried everything I have but now luck. Just wanted to see if someone has already solved this problem before I go seek out a solution. I know it can be done with the starter but I'd prefer to not use that method.

TIA,

Richard

Last edited by SnowyATX; Jan 14, 2007 at 11:33 AM.
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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 11:40 AM
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I made one. Took a socket, cut it in half and welded it to a flat bar and then bent the bar. Works great. I couldn't find anything else to fit.

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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 01:34 PM
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I made my own by milling four sides on a 24 mm socket. That way I can use a wrench to grab it from the side. Plus, this way, if I don't have a good angle on it with the wrench, I can flip the wrench and grab it again for the next turn. I usually use a medium size adjustable with it and it works great. Made a few for my C5 buds a few years ago.

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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 01:37 PM
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Almost any auto parts vendor will have versions of a flywheel turning tool similar to this...price varies from $20.00 to $80.00 depending on source and manufacturer. It may not be convenient for this particular job since since someone would have to beneath the car periodically. I'm not sure that the flywheel can be accessed with an LSx motor (?). But, it's a useful tool.
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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 01:41 PM
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I used a 12 inch long crescent wrench.
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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 01:53 PM
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Originally Posted by vettenuts
I made one. Took a socket, cut it in half and welded it to a flat bar and then bent the bar. Works great. I couldn't find anything else to fit.

This is exactly what I was thinking myself. Too bad I don't have access to a welder.
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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 05:21 PM
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If your engine is fully assembled meaning the serpentine belt is on and tight you can use a socket and wrench on the alternator bolt and rotate motor. It worked for me anyway.
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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 05:49 PM
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Originally Posted by trymyz
If your engine is fully assembled meaning the serpentine belt is on and tight you can use a socket and wrench on the alternator bolt and rotate motor. It worked for me anyway.
With the plugs out of the engine, this ought to work just fine.

Charlie
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Old Jan 14, 2007 | 08:07 PM
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Originally Posted by cruisemon
With the plugs out of the engine, this ought to work just fine.

Charlie
Never thought of that....may have to give that a whirl....no pun intended.
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Old Jan 15, 2007 | 09:20 PM
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If it's a manual tranny you can jack up one rear wheel, put her in 6th, and easily turn the wheel by hand (even with all the plugs in).
Downside is you can't see the valves moving, unless you have a friend around.

DG
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Old Feb 4, 2007 | 11:43 AM
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Originally Posted by trymyz
If your engine is fully assembled meaning the serpentine belt is on and tight you can use a socket and wrench on the alternator bolt and rotate motor. It worked for me anyway.
Worked great! Thanks.......
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