Yeah...mine is pretty greasey. I wonder if regular degreaser would work, as long as it doesn't leave a residue and I get it dry?
...Jimmy

 

I've just taken my (formerly) working alternator apart. It is coated in "gunk" so that'll be cleaned up whilst I'm replacing parts inside it (bearings, regulator, brushes etc.).

As it sits on the front of the engine and afaik all parts are water proof (must be or else it would short out all the time), I've been recommended to put it into a mix of engine cleaner and water. Although diesel is supposed to do the job as well... Oil removes oil... Unlogical but working fact.

 

Doug...I assume you mean to use extension wedged against ground and bump the starter?
...Jimmy

 

Yes. Just make sure to figure out which way the engine rotates, of course ....and disable the fuel injection or ignition so you don't inadvertently start the engine

Might not be needed, but then again it might.

On my AJ16 engine I certainly needed to do so. I simply couldn't break it free, even with pipe extensions for leverage and my 230 pound heft (not to mention my rippling, grapefruit-sized biceps!).

The bolt is torqued to something outrageous. I can't remember the exact spec, but something like 250 ft/lbs? On reinstallation I just had to take I guess that I was tightening it enough as the spec was far higher than any of my torque wrenches would go.

Cheers
DD

 

I'm not sure if the balancer bolt on an AJ6 would be so tight

Cheers
DD

 

Thanks Doug...My manual calls for around 140 FT/Lbs. Going out this morning to give it shot. Should turn in clockwise direction, can tell by looking at fan. Hopefully won't need it.
...Jimmy

 

You can lock the engine rather easy... All you want is to remove the lower plate between engine and tranny and wedge something up there, long enough to stop the engine turning and off. And whilst you have the harmonic balancer off, replace the front oil seal... Not kidding. You'll kick yourself if you didn't do that at the same time!

 

I might suggest a healthy impact air or electric, if there is room???

 

Got the bolt off by wedging a box end wrench and bumping the starter. Now to figure out how to torque it back when reinstalling. Probably will remove the flywheel cover and brace somehow as suggested earlier.

While the pulley/damper is being rebuilt I'll have time to start recovering the seats. The fun just never stops.

Cheers...Jimmy