cam degreeing issues

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rigger3006

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just got jegs cam degree kit, when trying to find true tdc im having issues with crank nut when i back it off and adjust degree wheel to tdc, when i go to tighten or loosen it the engine turns and im losing my spot. this is on a 360, maybe i need to rig another tool to turn crank or am i missing something. heads off and on engine stand
 
For my 273 LA there is a special tool that goes on the nose of the crank in place of the nut which prevents that from happening. Seems like I got mine at summit racing. Should fit any LA small block--------
 
i have the crank snout sprocket, but cant use it because wheel is mounted with crank bolt. crank spins easy, oil pan is on so hard to stop crank from spinning unless i try to jam something at rear of crank, i dont know how precise that would be though. first time doing this, after an hour and a half and some blood im ready for the old dot to dot routine
 
I always use my harmonic balancer install tool when I have the degree wheel on, works great.
 
You need a Crank Snout tool in your life..... It will make your life so much easier for this type of work.... Others may chime in with their own recipe but take it from a guy who owns them for alot of the Big 3 motors that the cost of this tool is well worth it....

JW
 
ok, i have a crank snout tool from summit, i mount the wheel and the tool no more crank snout.maybe im missing something. balancer install tool i'll look into, i usually use a 2x4 and rubber mallet!
 
ok, i have a crank snout tool from summit, i mount the wheel and the tool no more crank snout.maybe im missing something. balancer install tool i'll look into, i usually use a 2x4 and rubber mallet!

Post a picture of what you have. It should have a Set Screw that tightens down over the Keyway. Past that the end of the tool should accept a 1/2" Square driver (breaker bar or whatever) and should have a threaded shoulder that the wheel slips on...

JE
 
i have the crank snout sprocket, but cant use it because wheel is mounted with crank bolt. crank spins easy, oil pan is on so hard to stop crank from spinning unless i try to jam something at rear of crank, i dont know how precise that would be though. first time doing this, after an hour and a half and some blood im ready for the old dot to dot routine

I know this will not help at this point, but you should do this with the crank and the first piston and rod assy installed. Are you using a wire pointer on the degree wheel? Anyway, try to block the crank by turning in a disposable bolt so it catches the open web at the back of the block. I actually have a degreed damper for all this stuff.
 
yes i would use a tool if i had one, any suggestions on affordable tool, remember im in canada so i pay about 85% more than you guys. yes my crank snout tool has a set key, i'll have to go check about the threaded shoulder, thanks guys
 
well ****, i knew i wasnt thinking straight, thanks slopar72. ya if i mount the balancer and enlarge hole on degree wheel for crank bolt i can bolt wheel to pulley holes. doh!
 
guess i should of asked for recommendations for a good kit before i jumped the gun. think i got her figured out now, thanks!
 
well now i feel like a real ''tool'',ha. my crank snout tool does have those threads, just have to enlarge hole on wheel!
 
Once you get your readings, I set the engine to TDC, then take the crank bolt out with an impact wrench - sometimes you have to hold the balancer and wheel to keep them from spinning...
 
How many pistons do you have installed? If you put them all in, the crank won't turn so easily on you...
 
You might want to consider a piston stop as well, install on #1 and finding TDC is a snap!


You and I would get along building motors lol... I am too lazy to google but Powehouse is who I got all my stuff from 20 years ago. In fact, I have used the Comp Cams Kit in someone's garage and I think everything was there to do the job right. Check that PtoV clearance while you are at it man....

Good luck OP,
JW
 
i have both types of piston stops, all is good, wish i'd asked yesterday, a little less blood,sweat and beers!
 
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