current problem is getting bolt to turn without turning engine....probably have to put it in 3rd gear....any ideas....

we dont have curbs so I have to block the wheels....

ok...

CB

If it's a manual transmission, then yes, put it in gear and block the wheels and push the e-brake. If it's an auto trans, I've had some luck with removing the starter or transmission cover and holding the flywheel teeth with a large crow bar. This bolt is a standard thread and will remove in a counterclockwise direction from the front.

You will almost surely need a harmonic balancer puller to remove it once the bolt is out. I got mine for under $20 at the local chain parts store, it works, but they are cheap steel and break easily if you twist too hard. Some parts stores will also rent tools.

I found that when using the balancer puller, you should install the tool with the 3 outer bolts only threaded about 1/4" into the balancer. Next, tighten the center bolt till it's snug, but then stop, or you will get the problem with the crank spinning again. Go back to tightening the 3 outer bolts. Go around in sequence tightening each bolt half of a turn until they are almost all the way in. You should notice that the harmonic balancer should have moved about 3/8". Now back the 3 outer bolts back out half way and tighten the center bolt again. Repeat the process until the balancer falls off or can be easily removed with carful tightening of the center bolt.

Sounds more complex than it should be, but after a few years, these things can get very tight and I've already broken more than one puller by just trying to brute force it off only turning the center bolt of the puller.

_________________
1980 Aspen 225 super six

Thanks! This should help. I have printed it out for my mechanic. He is in a better place to deal with any unexpected consequences than I am at this point. Terrible to find something which might lead to something major that I cant handle. Some day I will learn things....

The old coronet goes off to the shop tomorrow morning.

Anyone have anything to add before then- greatly appreciated. It has been such a relyable car-

Many thanks in advance for your good work

Conrad

The end of the story....

Not knowing how far the thing extended into the engine....which is not far...I did not know that I was watching play in the crank shaft and not in the balancer wheel....

Play in the shaft not good.....

Due to the over all condition of the vehicle I will not pursue repairs...I just did all around brake work which cost $500....following relatiivly new starter a few months,....alternator....a year or so....and new tires....about 1 year with very little wear....

It is good for parts....especially brake parts@#!@!$!@# and is an artcar.

Here is the web page....
I am in Baltimore Maryland.....so is the car....

Lots of photos....

If sold for parts will go without front hood and three dimensional art stuff. Depending on price I may keep starter and alternator....all depends on the offer.....

Take a leuk!

http://www.geocities.com/willboyne/bowl ... drian.html

Thanks for all the assistance....

Conrad Bladey
cbladey@bcpl.net

I've put motors in cars for just a few hundred bucks??

If you've got $500 into brakes, I'd think about a used motor before scrapping the whole thing. I'd offer to help if you where closer.

Good luck whatever you choose to do, sorry to hear about the engine problem.

_________________
1980 Aspen 225 super six

Swapping a "new" engine into that is not really a big job, or difficult...

Wow! That is something else! Reminds me of the Partridge Family bus... You can pick up a running slant for a song these days. It would be a shame to loose all that work for something relatively cheap to replace. I wish I were closer to help as well. Anyone??

The main problem is that the frame is almost all gone to total rust- artwork also covers rust in the panels......front end is close to needing work....Budget is non existant.....

If you like this one check out my other artcars....

http://www.geocities.com/artcars/hutmanartcars.html

Of course if there is someone who would enjoy the challenge I will consider all offers and be greatly appreciative....patrons of the arts always welcome.

I am in Baltimore.....

Many thanks for the good thoughts and helpful assistance....

CB

Sir! I salute you!.....but may I suggest you leave Bowling for Mondrian in some place where it can make a final artistic statement instead of parting it put?.....(ideas flood into my addled cranium)

Thanks!
That is a photo of me on Handy car - 90 grand am....It won first prize in its category at the grand largest in the world artcar parade in Houston last year.

Yes....the car is now back left corner of the small back yard. It is a wonderful large boom box great sound quality due to real metal interior. I have investegated giving it to the local visionary art museum- am sending them a proposal today....we shall see...

I should know in a month.....then try ebay, then advertize.....only then part it out and leave the shell in the yard till the wife goes crazy....hold on she is crazy ....so till she gets cured.....

Thanks for all the help here!

CB