Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Help turning over engine to remove my torque converter

[HerbW]

I have a question. I want to remove my torque converter in my 1998 Dodge Diesel 12 valve 4x4. What is the best way to turn over the engine to remove all of the converter bolts? I've thought about using a socket on the front of the crankshaft to do this. Would I need to remove all my injectors to relieve pressure?

I see they also make a small gear that fits thru a hole to turn it over with a socket set. Is this an easy part to find?

Any advise is greatly appreciated. Herb

 

[RStankevitz]

we always use a socket on the alternator nut.

 

[fox]

That would be called a barring tool. I got mine from snap-on--on line.

 

[Joe G.]

I use a barring tool with a ratchet on it that I can reach from my creeper. That allows precise positioning that turning anything on the front of the engine doesn't give you if you are working alone. A screwdriver in the ring gear works too.

 

[bigdaddydieseldan]

the engine barring tool that cummins carries is made by kd tools and I also believe you maybe able to purchase from napa too.

 

[HerbW]

Do I have to pull injectors before I turn the engine? I would rather not.

To use a barring tool, do I have to remove anything to get to the hole it goes in?

Which direction do I turn the engine when looking from the front of the engine? I assure the barring tool goes the opposite direction.

 

[Joe G.]

Leave the injectors alone. The barring tool hole has a rubber plug in it. It's on passenger side of the engine on the front of the bell houseing. The barring tool fits a ratchet so you can turn it either way. It's better to turn the engine the proper direction. Check the fan and turn it so the fan would be pulling air through the radiator.

 

[HerbW]

Joe G.

I see you're an older TDR member. Ya beat me by two months! Nice avatar of the flag, I wonder if I got it from you years ago? Thanks to you and the others for the barring tool and other info. I'll look for the tool and rubber plug. I need to do my valve adjustments soon anyway. Herb

 

[Joe G.]

Yep. When Rob Spading sold his Diesel Ram web site to TDR those of us who were TDR members and on it switched to the new TDR version of the web site. I was the 12th. There were only about 200 of us in the first few months in '99.