Installing a balancer using a piston stop tool to keep from rotating?

[GreenFish]

I'm getting ready to swap my balancer. I ordered a install/removal tool kit but I realized I'm going to run into the problem of the engine turning over on me when I do so. Can I use a TDC tool to stop the pistons? I'm afraid that may damage the pistons. any other options to keep the engine still with a manual trans?

[soundcontrol]

I stop mine from rotating by putting something thru the flexplate that stops it at the block edge, but thats an automatic, don't know what a manual tranny looks like there, if there is a hole you can use. Probably not the correct way, but it works.

[1 Wild R/T]

As Sound Control mentioned lock the balancer....

[laramie]

I'm getting ready to swap my balancer. I ordered a install/removal tool kit but I realized I'm going to run into the problem of the engine turning over on me when I do so. Can I use a TDC tool to stop the pistons? I'm afraid that may damage the pistons. any other options to keep the engine still with a manual trans?

Um... Leave it in gear?

[73_Cuda_4_Me]

Removing the balancer with a puller has not been any problem on my 340, and I've done both engines several times... and you could always put a big pry bar in the bolts of the puller while tightening the puller screw.. that will prevent the puller and balancer from turning...

 

[roadman5312]

Removing the balancer with a puller has not been any problem on my 340, and I've done both engines several times... and you could always put a big pry bar in the bolts of the puller while tightening the puller screw.. that will prevent the puller and balancer from turning...

 

                                                         

[73_Cuda_4_Me]

When installing the balancer, put a little never-sieze on crank and balancer... should be able to use ratchet and socket to get completely on, then use screwdriver on flywheel ring gear or clutch pressure plate to bell housing, and torque crank balancer bolt to spec...

[moper]

If you have the right tool, the crank won't spin. One wrench holds the crank via the screw of the tool, the other turns the outer install "nut" to push on the balancer.

[GreenFish]

Thanks for all the replies guys. I'm going to give it a go soon as the tool arrives

[soundcontrol]

I knew there was a more proffessional way, please post a picture of that tool when you get it, never seen one.

[73440]

http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/wiki/Harmonic_balancer/damper_-_How_to_remove_and_install

Some info in this link.

[GreenFish]

I bought this kit, showed up yesterday. going to try and get the balance off tonight if I have time. Ill send an update

OTC Tools & Equipment HD Harmonic Balancer Puller/Installer Set 4531

[Chryco Psycho]

A better way to stop the engine turning is to use a soft nylon rope & feed in as much as possible this will spread the load over a much wider surface area

[GreenFish]

Got the old one off and the new one on. Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy

The OTC puller/installer set is excellent. Pulled the old one off and put the new one on like I knew what I was doing. Made easy work of it. It did not require anything to hold the engine still it does it itself or you can hold it if it does turn by putting a wrench the end of the installer.

Here is where I bought it. I recommend this tool.
http://www.cpooutlets.com/otc-tools-and-equipment-4531-heavy-duty-harmonic-balancer-puller-installer-set/otcn4531,default,pd.html?start=7&q=otc%20puller

[73_Cuda_4_Me]