[fyrebird68]

How do you guys hold the engine stationary (400/TH400) when breaking loose the harmonic balancer bolt?

I tried a screwdriver wdged in the torque converter, but its a little too springy. Can't get a clamp on the flex plate - no place with sufficient clearance.

Tell me your secret!

Thanks,
Bob Trimpe

[71lemanssprt]

do you have the cylinder heads still on if so fill cylinder bores with oil and pull the pushrods leaving the spark pluggs in . this wil create hydraulic lock. if none of the above are possible try bar thru flywheel hole the turn engine till bar locks against block. good luck

[Old Goat 67]

A lenght of rope in one of the cylinders will work also. Just be sure to leave the end sticking out.
Charles

[meanolgoat]

I've placed a screwdriver, or prybar, thru one of the holes in the flywheel, and then wedged it against the Starter mounting pad on the block. (after removing the starter of course)

[sstripes96]

1/2 inch impact or a fly wheel tool.

[engineer]

cheater bar wedged against frame and bump starter over with coil wire disconnected or the Indian rope trick per old goat 67.

[carcollector]

Just use a long socket extension and you'll have no problem finding a place to brace it thru your flexplate. Give yourself plenty of room under the car.

[fyrebird68]

The "Indian rope trick" worked for me.

It's amazing how much clothesline fits inside a 400ci cylinder - over 20 feet!


Thanks for all the tips.

Bob Trimpe