I realize that this may be a stupid question, but does anyone know if a special toolmust be used to remove the crankshaft bolt holding that timing thing (for lack of the proper name for it)between the crankshaft pulley and the timing belt gearon a '93 Mustang 4 cyl, 8 plug engine? It appears that a spanner wrench will work, but I don't have one the proper size handy.I'd prefer asimpler method of removing the crank bolt than jamming the flywheel to lock down the crank. Anybody got any experience with this problem?

 

Well - I'd try a damn good air gun - but be sure you don't have a reverse threaded bolt. It's been a while since I played with the 4 cylinder deals- but I usually have the timing cover off (and modified to slide on/off easier) and I jam a timing gear (as long as I'm putting a new belt on) with a LARGE screwdriver. If not that then I jam the flywheel with the screwdriver. With a stickshift you can put it in gear too and lock on the brakes (e-brake,etc.) but be careful 'cause a stuck bolt CAN move the whole car with it in gear(don't be standing in front or at the wheels - stay under hood). Also a real good strap wrench on the pulley outer ring would help. That's about it that's OK to do aside from pulling the valve cover and jamming the cam. but keep in mind - timing belts don't always hold out under the pressure, so if it was me I'd look to carefully jam the flywheel, or a combination of that AND the timing gears.

 

(If it's not stickshift).