Crank Bolt Removal

If you are having that much trouble loosening it be sure to use a socket over the bolt and not just plug the 1/2" drive end of the impact wrench into the bolt end. You can expand the hole in the bolt and actually break it! (I'm not saying how I know this...)

I use a "powerful" impact wrench from Ingersol Rand. Most of the impacts sold in places like sears, etc, seem to be "weak" by comparison. I just got lucky when I bought it at Grainger's. It's kinda heavy but it always loosens (or breaks) those stubborn nuts and bolts!

I encountered one crank bolt recently that the IR impact wrench couldn't loosen. Since I was gonna rebuild the motor anyway I blasted the bolt with a torch. The heat and the impact wrench finally got it loose. Obviously, if you are not going to replace the crank seal, balance and timing belts, don't heat that bolt! Also, before applying flame to DSM, wipe the grease and oil off as much as you can first! Things can get ugly in a hurry!

Rick