I'm thinking I need to do the kdp, finally. I'll retorque all case mounting bolts while I'm in there. What I need to know is, can I unhook the fuel solenoid and bump the starter to gain access to the bolts behing the cam gear. I can't imagine what it will hurt to do that instead of barring the motor?

 

Yes you can, but it will not be very accurate just kind of hit and miss.

 

Throw a socket on the alternator nut. Not as defined as the barring tool, but easier than bumping the starter.

 

Might be kind of hard to do since he will already have the crank damper, cover and the belt off in order to change the seal and then tighten the bolts BEHIND THE CAM GEAR !

 

Good call, I'll go back to sleep!

 

I took a piece of 2.5"x2.5"x 1/4" square tubing (the stuff they use for trailer receivers) 1" long. cut a piece of 1/4" plate 2.5"x 2.5" and weld it on one end of the square tubing. drill a 1/2" hole in the middle and use a small square file to make the hole square, so a 1/2" ratchet will fit. or weld on a split 1/2" drive socket. to use the tool, run in the 4 bolts into the front of the crankshaft that hold the damper on. leave the damper off. the square tubing will fit over the 4 bolt heads and you can turn the crank either direction with a 1/2" ratchet. the tool will also work with the damper on to adjust the valves. it is easier than the cummins baring tool. try it!!

 

Brilliant! I'm making one tomorrow...

 

That is a great idea and not very hard for most anyone to make one.
Thanks for teaching us a new trick.

 

I made my barring tool by welding a cheap 1/2" drive socket to the gear off an old starter.
Local automotive electric shop gave me the gear for free, said I could have as many as I wanted for the same price.