Hello everyone,
I have 188K on the truck and would like to adjust the valves. I searched the threads and some suggest to use one of the four 15mm bolts on the balancer and the others say use the alternator but spin the motor counter clockwise. Which one is best?

I looked under the truck and the "TDC" mark is perfectly at 6 o'clock so atleast i know where the TDC mark is.

Thanks for your suggestion.

Scott

 

I would not use the balance bolts. Do you want to risk breaking one?

Try the alternator. You can get the cummins barring tool if you want to be a pro. (I'm not a pro )

 

Does anyone know where I can buy the Barring tool as well as the estimated cost? Thanks

 

Use the balancer bolts. It's not an issue. I do it all the time. If you can break one of those bolts with a 3/8 racket you are doing something.

 

I am used to turning the engine with the center bolt which usually has a 15/16" head. I am pretty nervous using the balancer bolts - that motor must have a boat load of compression. I would hate to snap the bolt - i will likely use a 1/2" drive with an extension since it will likely not spin so easily.

 

2X^
if you break one of them bolts off, you have sized or hydraulicked motor, and use a LONG 1/2" ratchet, save your muscles!

 

I just replaced the balancer and the torque is 30ft.lb. then +60*. A 1/2 in breaker bar takes a lot of pressure to get the 60*. Had to have the trans in 6th gear to stop the engine from turning. Just be sure you rotate the engine clockwise when facing the front of the engine to keep from loosening the bolts.

 

Ok - so pretty much rotate the engine like I would be tightening the balancer bolts.

Thanks
Scott

 

snap on sells the baring tool about $80 or if you can find on old starter you can make one with the pinion off the starter and an old socket.

 

Many use the center nut on the alternator to turn it over.

 

GENO'S has them I think.

 

I just use the 36 MM Fan Wrench, then turn engine backwards, much faster then barring tool. Just remember to remove it before you start engine.

 

Thanks everyone - I was amazed at how easily the engine turned over using one of the harmonic bolts. Compared to some 11 to 1 small block fords, the cummins was much easier. Adjusting the valves went pretty smooth, maybe placebo effect but it seems smoother and quick throttle response. I leave thursday am for the journey from WI to FL hauling the 34' gooseneck. I know exactly what we got the last 5 times for mpg, will be interesting to see if this has any minor effect or not.

 

napa has baring tool $60