Triumph Repair: 75 Spitfire Crank Shaft Pully, air impact wrench, crank shaft

Question
Jim, thank you very much for your prompt reply.  My impact wrench didn't budge the darn thing.  Can I have your opinion on "roping a cylinder" (making sure it is on the compression stroke to avoid any valve damage)?

Regards,
Jim
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Followup To

Question -
Hi Jim,  I'm in the process of replacing the timing cover seal on my 75 spitfire.  Can you suggest a couple methods to keep the crank shaft pully from turning while loosening it's retaining nut (first gear and brakes on isn't working)?  The engine is still in the car but the radiator is removed.  
Many Thanks,
Jim

Answer -
Jim,

There are several different things you can try, depending upon what resources you have locally and how much "repair" work you're willing to do.

One way to lock the crank is to pull the starter motor and jam a block of wood into the ring gear teeth.  That's a good way to add wood chips into the bell housing (not really a good thing) but it works for some people.

If that fails you can pull the oil pan and wedge the 2x4 between the crank and the block on one of the piston throws.  

If you have access to a good 1/2" or 3/4" air impact wrench you may be able to just knock the crank nut loose that way.


Cheers,

Jim

Answer
Jim,

Yup, I completely blanked on the old rope trick.  Luckily I haven't had to use it but I've heard lots of success stories from other Spitfire owners.

Do it on #1 cylinder as there will be less distance (and chance) for the crankshaft to twist.


Cheers,

Jim