Jamming the starter ring gear for crankshaft bolt removal?

[John Howard]

I need to jam the starter ring gear in order to prevent engine rotation for crankshaft bolt removal.

Haynes Contour book, p.2A-7 says,"On models with automatic transaxles, remove the starter and wedge a large screwdriver into the flywheel ring gear teeth."

Could some please explain that technique in more detail? What do you wedge it against exactly? I have the access plate loose as someone here suggested and can get a screwdriver into the ring gear teeth but I'm not sure what to jam it against. Could someone who has done it offer the correct technique?

I'm apprehensive as the ring gear doesn't look too strong. But guys here must have done it many times for timing belt replacement. Any advice is greatly appreciated as I don't want to damage anything. This my first water pump and timing belt repair job. Thanks!

 

[skunk]

They make a tool to hold the ring gear . I have used one before. See if your local parts store like advance or o'rilley rents them out some places rent tools .

 

[svtavino]

I just did the timing belt and just used my impact it came right off without an issue.

 

[John Howard]

I just did the timing belt and just used my impact it came right off without an issue.

Nice! But doesn't your SVT have a manual transmission that you can put into gear and step on the brakes to keep the engine from rotating? Mine is an automatic trans that the book says you got to jam the engine to keep it from rotating.. Plus I don't have an impact wrench, although I might end up buying one! Thanks.

 

[John Howard]

They make a tool to hold the ring gear . I have used one before. See if your local parts store like advance or o'rilley rents them out some places rent tools .

I found this. For that price I might buy one and modify it with a hacksaw and try to make it work. Bearing against 3 teeth would be WAY better than just 1 tooth. But are all flywheel teeth similar size? You wouldn't think so. Plus this thing might be backwards for the Contour. There are other similar tools. Must study this more. Thanks!

 

[svtavino]

I have a Zetec Mystique with an automatic also.

 

[John Howard]

I have a Zetec Mystique with an automatic also.

So using your impact wrench you didn't need to jam the flywheel ring gear or otherwise stop the engine from rotating even with an automatic trans? If so, I just might get one! What impact wrench are you using? Thanks for the info.