1981 245 Timing belt on the horizon

MEK · Post by **MEK** » 18 Jan 2021, 18:56

Howdy folks,

Lizzie, my '81 245, is finally getting some much deserved repair love.
I'm finally getting around to a myriad of things including timing belt.
I've read up alot on procedure & feel pretty confident in doing it.
One thing I'm wanting to clarify though is removing the crankshaft bolt. I have no problem investing in tools but it seems the "special tool" sold by IPD & FCP doesn't work for an '81.
I've read of other methods like the rope in cylinder, strap/chain wrench, U bolt etc...
But I've also read that for manual trans (M46 in my car) I can put the car in gear & it does the trick.

Can someone verify this? Does it matter what gear?

This is my daily driver so when I do the belt I wanna make sure I have everything I need.

Thanks!

MEK

Post by **volvolugnut** » 19 Jan 2021, 07:46

If you have access to an impact wrench, that works very well to loosen the crankshaft bolt. If not, place the manual trans in first gear for best engine turning resistance.
Consider changing the water pump and other belts while you have everything apart. Timing belt tensioner? Maybe check the alternator brushes as well.

volvolugnut

MEK · Post by **MEK** » 19 Jan 2021, 12:46

Yeah I'd use an impact if I had one.
Good to know putting the car in gear will help.

I have a kit with new tensioner & front seals.

I thought about the water pump but....mine seems fine so honestly I may just leave it.

Thanks,
MEK

Post by **volvolugnut** » 19 Jan 2021, 17:40

$80 gets a Harbor Freight corded impact wrench with 1050 Ft Lb torque. Very handy to have around and works very well for things that can turn and can't be backed up.
volvolugnut

MEK · Post by **MEK** » 19 Jan 2021, 20:07

Oh wow, looks like HF actually has a 1/2" drive one for $60...that's basically the same price as the "special tool" from IPD.. . Thanks for the heads up, might just go that route! Probably end up using it for many other repairs anyway.

MEK

MEK · Post by **MEK** » 20 Jan 2021, 20:35

Although an impact wrench will help me remove the crankshaft nut I will still need to tighten the nut back up later with a torque wrench. I think I will just save the $, put the transmission in gear for both removal & installation.
MEK

Post by **abscate** » 25 Jan 2021, 05:48

You can swag the correct torque with a long breaker bar and some common sense, if you are trying to keep the tool budget low.