HEAD BOLT????

[DetroitDon]

I'm replacing the head on my 93 Festiva with an Aspire head. Not a bad job so far except removing the crank bolt. While everything is apart, I want to replace the timing belt, but there is a flanged washer under the crank bolt, and I can't seem to get it off.

By the way, I've found the Haynes manual pretty much worthless on this project. They never mention that you have to remove the engine mount and lower the engine to get to the bolts on the crank pulley's, of the crank bolt itself. I found their manual pretty much worthless before when working on my Neon. They just seem to miss very important steps and information when doing various jobs....

Thanks,

Don

[darkdan]

Is that the really HUGE thing? Otherwise I'm thinking of something else.

There's a key wedged in there. You have to pull that little square rod (key) out to remove it.

Since you're down there, replace that crank seal while you're at it. This way you know you won't have a leak.

[DetroitDon]

Yes......the big bolt in the end of the crankshaft.

Don

[Safety Guy]

If you have the smaller crank nose, you'll have that "key" that Darkdan told you about. Look at this photo:

http://www.fordfestiva.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3709

The crank pulley on the right should be what you have. That slot at the top of the middle hole is for the key.

Karl

[gdawgs]

Re: HEAD BOLT????

They never mention that you have to remove the engine mount and lower the engine to get to the bolts on the crank pulley's, of the crank bolt itself.
Don

You don't have to. I've replaced 3 timing belts and never had to lower the engine. It's been a while so I don't remember exactly how I did it, but I know I didn't lower the engine.

[darkdan]

Well if you're using a wrench you wouldn't have to.

If you're using an impact then you do.

On my aspire not only do I have to drop the engine, but I have to bend the wheel well up a little. then bend it back.