Archived can't finish valve adjustment...

[THenningsen]

I started to do a valve adjustment today and got the valve cover off and everything ready to go, but I don't have a barring tool. So, I tried to use the alternator nut to turn the crank, but the nut loosened. Is there any other way? Can I rent a barring tool? It looks like an oversized torx bit, does anyone know what size it is? How can I make sure my alternator nut is tight?

 

[Matt400]

I just use a 15mm socket and semi long ratchet on one of the harmonic balancer bolts. Rotate clockwise and just don't try to turn the engine over too fast & it moves fine.

 

[AMink]

On my 12v I was able to get underneath, grab hold of the balancer and turn it by hand. It wasn't easy, but it is doable.

 

[cruiser_2]

Before I got my barring tool in a maintenance kit that Cummins offered, I used a remote starter switch that would allow you to get it really close by bumping the starter. Cummins had a kit for about 55 bucks that included all the necessary tools to do maintenance on your truck.



Good Luck with the adjustment

 

[GAmes]

Try turning it the other way:-laf

 

[THenningsen]

got it turned by using the harmonic balancerf bolts... . thanks. my only other question is the torque spec on the rocker arm lock nuts. It says that you are supposed to torque them to 27 ft/lbs i think... . but how do you do this and keep the allen wrench in place? should I use a 14mm crows foot or is there a better way?

 

[Matt400]

I have never put a torque wrench to that nut, I just tighten it based on how hard it was to break loose but if you are unsure and 27 lbs is in fact the spec then you could put a bolt that size in a vise and torque a nut to 25 lbs, then put your wrench you will be using on the nut to see how much force it takes to move it tighter. That will give you a "feel" for it.



Maybe back woods but just a thought.

 

[rubberneck]

On my 12v I was able to get underneath, grab hold of the balancer and turn it by hand. It wasn't easy, but it is doable.

Remind me not to shake hands with you. Probably crush my hand. :-laf Anybody who can turn one of these things over by hand is more of a man than me.

 

[lmills]

I believe the 27 ft lbs you are referring to is the hold down bolt that goes thru the center of the rocker. That is what they get torqued to.