273 timing sprockets help

[dart65]

Im in the middle of tearing apart my 273 for a cam and lifter and timing chain replacement when I ran into a problem. I can't seem to get the timing chain and sprockets off. The cam sprocket wants to come off only to a point then, when I try to get the crank sprocket loose it does not budge at all. Is there some trick or method to getting them off. This is my first time replacing a cam. The books I read say both must come off together and it is a back and forth affair between crank and cam. However, my crank sprocket "feels" welded on its so tight. What is the secret I can post pics if that helps at all. Thanks

 

[4spdragtop]

We did the same in dads 273, you may need to pry behind each sprocket alternating cam, crank, cam, crank. Once the cam gear is off there is a cam retaining plate behind it with 4 bolts.

 

[dart65]

We did the same in dads 273, you may need to pry behind each sprocket alternating cam, crank, cam, crank. Once the cam gear is off there is a cam retaining plate behind it with 4 bolts.

That is what I've been trying to do but I just can't seem to get any leverage to pry the crank sprocket off. The engine is still in the car too. Is there some type of puller I can use?

 

[Bad Sport]

You could use a puller, just be careful not to booger the threads in the crank snout.

 

[dart65]

You could use a puller, just be careful not to booger the threads in the crank snout.

Thanks for all the help I got the crank sprocket off with a puller and a metal plate covering the crank snout. How do I get the new one back on though? Is there another tool out there I can use to make it easier??

 

[RedFish]

If you'll pick the woodruf key out of the crank you will likely find it distorted. That is where the resistance to proper slip fit comes from. A new key and crocus cloth clean the journal. Crank gear should tap on with the hammer handle.

 

[BillGrissom]

RedFish is correct on the key being the hangup. Yours probably tilted a bit to lock it on. Notice there is a reduced step on the crank that helps you get it started. Things to consider that I recall:

The upper bolt, passenger side is supposed to have a thru hole to drip oil on the chain. Mine didn't. I used the later design (Magnum?) of leaving out that bolt and adding a "drip plate" which I bought for ~$12 at the Dealer.

You should have an oil slinger outside the crank sprocket. Search for photos of which way to put it. There is also a felt washer which goes inside the crank damper (read, wish I had), it should be in the seal kit. For sure, change the front seal.

I used one of the "3 slot" timing kits, and set mine at the +4 deg advanced dots for better mileage and low-end torque, plus allows for chain wear. Whichever kit you use, align the sprockets so the two dots are closest together. At that point, #1 should be at TDC on exhaust stroke.

 

[dart65]

RedFish is correct on the key being the hangup. Yours probably tilted a bit to lock it on. Notice there is a reduced step on the crank that helps you get it started. Things to consider that I recall:

The upper bolt, passenger side is supposed to have a thru hole to drip oil on the chain. Mine didn't. I used the later design (Magnum?) of leaving out that bolt and adding a "drip plate" which I bought for ~$12 at the Dealer.

You should have an oil slinger outside the crank sprocket. Search for photos of which way to put it. There is also a felt washer which goes inside the crank damper (read, wish I had), it should be in the seal kit. For sure, change the front seal.

I used one of the "3 slot" timing kits, and set mine at the +4 deg advanced dots for better mileage and low-end torque, plus allows for chain wear. Whichever kit you use, align the sprockets so the two dots are closest together. At that point, #1 should be at TDC on exhaust stroke.

Thanks I used a puller to get the old crank sprocket off. I will definately make sure the oilling bolt is there I did not even notice that is was different. I have a summit steel crank and cam sprocket with double roller chain on their way as well as a new mopar woodruff key and timing tensioner just for inusurance.