I just completed redoing the tensioners and chains on our 1999 Jaguar XJ8L. It took a tremendous effort to get the crank bolt out but things went okay after that. I was putting everything back together and began installing the new crank bolt. However, it does is not getting tighter. I am using the jaguar tool to hold the crankshaft pulley so it is not turning. Is it possible that the crank is turning? My other thought is the crank threads are stripped although the bolt does not show evidence of metal particles,

Any advice will be appreciated.

Thanks,

 

That's pretty scary, although for the threads to be stripped in the crankshaft is unlikely.

I assume you still have the valve covers off, and so if the crank IS turning you will see the camshafts rotating.

 

Unfortunately I replaced the cam covers, coils and coil covers after replacing the timing chain cover. Not sure the best alternative for determining if the camshaft is turning when I am trying to tighten the pulley.
I suppose I could have someone assist by turning the crank bolt while I look through the access cover on the flywheel (not an easy job to remove or replace) to see if the flywheel is turning?

 

Take the oil filler cap off and look down it while trying to tighten the bolt.

 

Nilanium, thanks for the suggestion on the oil filler cap. The good news is that the cam is turning!

I understand that some have stopped the engine from turning when removing the crank bolt by inserting a prybar between the engine and torque converter through the transmission access hole. I hope that would work when tightening as well although I am not sure of the mechanics on this. Any guidance will be appreciated.

Thanks,

 

Just an FYI, the crank bolt thread is a 16mm X 2.00. You may want to get a tap or thread chaser in this size before proceeding. Also, use compressed air to blow any debris out of that hole first.

 

Thanks for the guidance from this group. I removed the bolt - had to use a prybar between the engine and torque converter to get the bolt started out. I pulled the crank pully off. I used several rounds of blaster followed by paper towels to clean the hole and then did the same with an old tooth brush until it came out clean. I then reassembled using the tool to hold the pully and was able to torque it to 250 foot -pounds - and without having to use the bar underneath to prevent the engine.

The help is much appreciated. I was ready to write-off the car when I thought I had stripped the threads in the crank.

Thanks again.