Flex plate removal

[98zjstroker]

OK so I've got the 4.0 out of my ZJ and ready to dismantle. Before I can get the engine on the stand I need to remove the flex plate. There are 6 bolts Holding the flex plate on to the motor. I seem to be having some trouble getting them off. Do I need an impact drill or is there a way I can prevent the motor from turning over when I try and unbolt them

 

[Jody Treadway]

One way is to stick a screwdriver through one of the torque converter holes and wedge it so the crank can't spin.

 

[a_kelley]

I always put a bolt into the block and wedged a pry bar into the teeth to lock it.. or buy a cordless 24v brushless impact.

 

[98zjstroker]

Thanks @Jody Treadway and @a_kelley. I tried the screw driver trick but couldn't get it to catch on anything. Will try again tomorrow. Was to tired and gave up. Besides my motorcycle kept asking me to ride it instead......so I did. @a_kelley would a regular impact that goes to my compressor not work?

 

[Jody Treadway]

Any 1/2" impact will do it. They're only like 85-100 ft/lbs.
I assumed you had to remove them by hand

 

[98zjstroker]

Any 1/2" impact will do it. They're only like 85-100 ft/lbs.
I assumed you had to remove them by hand

I didn't have to just didn't feel like buying a impact. But I probably should add one to my tool collection anyway and this is as good of a reason.

 

[rodney eppes]

If no impact, you can hold the wrench on [tight] Hopefully box end, & Smack the loose end of the wrench, with a Big hammer! Might have to do a couple times, but that will act as an Impact.

 

[a_kelley]

Like I said if you install a bolt one of the holes, put your pry bar into the flywheel teeth and pivot it on the bolt, and then should be able to turn the bolt loose without too much trouble. Or just pick up a HF earthquake 1/2" gun for like $60. You can always use it for lots more stuff. I'd recommend having at least a 8 gallon compressor.. I prefer oil lube pumps over oil less.. they don't burn up piston rings when run continuously.. I had said cordless because I didn't know if you had a compressor and they work awesome if you go to change a tire on the side of the road .. or trail.

 

[NickMaul]

Can’t a friend hold the bolt on the harmonic balancer while you get the flex plate off? Any parts store should sell a cheap tool that bites into the flex plate teeth.


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[CarolinaHD]

I see you're in Concord, if worse comes to worse I can swing by with my cordless impact and bust them loose right quick.