Tips or tricks for removing crankshaft bolt

[Marineair]

I am replacing the timing belt on my 1995 Ranger, after 175,000 miles I figured it was about time.

The manual says to remove the crankshaft pulley bolt. I don't think the writers ever saw a crankshaft pulley bolt let alone tried to remove one.

I've read about jamming a breaker bar against the ground and clicking the starter over to loosen it as well as removing hte starter and jamming something into the flywheel to lock it up.

I found this site and figured there must some knowledgeable folks here who would know a better way.

I've considered buying a starter at the junkyard and welding the pinion gear so it can't rotate and using that.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Scott

 

[RangerX]

Scott, not sure it matters, but what engine do you have? 2.5. 3.0, 4.0?

 

[Ronin8002]

If it's a 4.0, I had good luck with putting an impact socket on an 18" breaker bar, then laying that breaker bar on the driver's side frame rail. Bump the starter for just a half second and that should get it loose very nicely.

 

[snoranger]

If it's a 4.0,

I would have to say it isnt. The 4.0l doesnt have a timing belt, which is what the OP is trying to change.

I had good luck with putting an impact socket on an 18" breaker bar, then laying that breaker bar on the driver's side frame rail. Bump the starter for just a half second and that should get it loose very nicely.

That trick will work on the 4 cyl also.

 

[Marineair]

Thanks for the feedback.

I come from a background in military aviation and flat fours where there is a tool for everything. So I expected there to be some sort of fly wheel lock.

I'll give the starter bump method a try. I may still fab a flywheel lock just to do it.

Scott

BTW my truck is a 2.3L

 

[tmwalsh]

Turn the engine so that a cylinder is coming up on TDC. Snake a buncha rope into the spark plug hole. The rope will get smushed into the head, and block the crank from turning.
Be sure to leave a 'tail' or you'll be spending some time fishing the rope out.
tom