I'm about to check the valve lash on my '99, and the tech article mentions using the barring tool, or turning the engine by rotating the alternator counter-clockwise and letting the belt turn the engine. Anyone have any horror stories or even difficulties getting the engine to rotate using the alternator method? The barring tool is only $40-ish, and I intend to keep this truck pretty much forever, but I'm REALLY Cheap, and, well, 40 bucks is 40 bucks!
Thanks

 

Another easy, cheap way is to remove the torque converter/flywheel inspection cover, which is just behind the oil pan sump, and use a large flattipped screwdriver to turn the fly wheel using the teeth and the bottem of the bellhousing. It turns real easy. But you'd need a second pair of eyes up above to help.

 

I turned the engine dozens of turns by the alternator nut when replacing my VP44 and bleeding the lines and had zero problems. It is very easy to do.

 

Thanks! That'll save me 40 bucks!

 

i tried the alternator and it didnt work for me, the belt sliped, i bought the baring tool works great.

 

If you put pressure on the longer section of the belt coming off the alternator with your hand, it will usually grip enough that you can turn the engine over.

 

Have used the alternator trick on many engines with no issues... However on one truck the compression was high enough that the alternator nut actually came off before the engine moved! Had to use the barring tool then

 

I think the whole idea of turning the alternator nut is that you turn it in the tightening direction?..

 

Turn counter clockwise and rotate engine backwards. Real easy if nut is tight enough.

 

Belt slips in that direction, you have to turn the motor over backwards...

 

I agree that the motor can be turned over witht the alternator, but if you have the $$, just get the baring tool. Just my $.02

TK

 

or use a 15 mm socket and long half inch rachet and turn it from the balancer bolts to the crank , works for me

 

Why in the world you don't turn it on the damper bolts?