jlmacd wrote: ↑Wed May 16, 2018 9:48 am
Thanks Peter for the quick reply!
Yes, I did read the 'starter' method. Bit daunting but obviously works.
Should the ignition be disabled some way to stop the engine actually firing up?
Also, does the fact I have an automatic transmission have any bearing i.e. Should this method work still?
Makes no difference being automatic.
You don't need to disable anything...if it starts, switch off!
If there is a lot of locktite on the threads the bolt will undo bit by bit and easily if you squirt WD40 in the threads after moving the bolt a little bit.
I've used the starter method many, many times, it has never failed!
Thanks Jasper.
I should have just braved it out and tried it. As it was, I capitulated and passed the job to my local garage. They called me yesterday to say the crank bolt sheared and that they will have to get the 'bolt Doctor' to get the rest of the crank bolt out! Going to add another £300 to the job for this !!
Is it common for the bolt to snap like this or am I just one of the unlucky ones....?
I've never snapped a crank bolt in 48 years of working with cars!
The good thing with using the starter is that the bolt is "shocked" free and if you have a really tight one, the bolt can be loosened a fraction then plied with WD40 onto the bolt thread which will help it loosen up.