Crank removal -- How?

[phi22b@ck]

Ok -- seasoned veterans and rookies alike!

How did you get the crank out of your L-series? I have the main bolts out, but the FSM calls for some special Nissan tool. I will go get one if I have to, but I would rather find out if there are any hobbyist ways to do this.

I can post pics if anyone wants to see what I mean.

Thanks!

[Ed]

I'm going to assume you have the engine out of the car, and on a stand. With the engine up side down, con-rods and everything else removed.

With the main bolts removed you have the bearing caps still in place and that is what you still need to remove.

Start at the front of the engine, do one at a time. Tap the cap on the sides where the bolt goes, tap toward the rear with a rubber mallet or something else that won't score or scratch the metal ( I used the butt of a hammer with a rubber grip). The bearing cap should lean towards the rear just a little. Insert a flat tip screw driver between the cap and the block and gently pry the cap out of its place. Be carefull not to scratch the crank journal. You can tap the cap forward and back to loosen it up. This will work for all caps except the center cap and the rear cap. These have a bolt hole in the center. Insert the proper size bolt into the hole. Use a bolt atleast 5-6 inches long. Wrap a rag around the bolt and start by trying to wiggle the cap back and forth. It takes a little work to get these loose but once it gets going you can use the flat tip screw driver to pry it out. MAKE SURE YOU MARK EACH CAP SO THAT THEY GO BACK IN THE SAME PLACE. Number them from 1-7.

After you have all the caps out the crank should lift straight out. Be careful with it, IT IS HEAVY.

I hope that helps.:classic:

[phi22b@ck]

Thanks Ed! I will try this tomorrow (unless I am sitting on the couch watching the race).

I will post pics and experience after I give it a whirl.