Distributor drive gear nut removal

[Ruurd Schut]

I was lucky to be able to buy an early 3.8 E type engine (matching cylinder block, cylinder head, flywheel etc.) with smooth sump. Engine is in good condition but will be overhauled anyway, dismantling nearly done but facing problems with removal of distributor drive gear. Lock washer tapped back but unable to release the nut.
Assume standard "right" thread.

I don't want to apply to much force as I am afraid that I am overlooking something.....
All tips and advice welcome !!

Will have 4.2 engine for sale after the summer season, good condition, healthy oil pressure totally overhauled, regular oil change, never overheated and max. 20.000km's

[mgcjag]

Standard thread.....buy typically Very tight.....you may need a long bar and the courage to use it.....worth rigging a way to hold the other end of the shaft ....or an oxy torch on the nut.....Steve

[Allrand]

Yep, couldn't undo that nut on my 3.8 so just left it.

[Ruurd Schut]

Hi Randall,

is it possible to remove the crankshaft with the drive gear still in place ?

[Allrand]

Yes, just remove the sprocket & speedometer worm from the crankshaft first, then it can be menouvered past the speedo drive.

[abowie]

Put a ring spanner on the nut.

Secure the square section with a spanner. I have welded an oil pump connector to a foot long piece of bar to hold this.

Undo it.

It shouldn't present too much of a problem.

[Ruurd Schut]

Thank you for your support.
Once I "blocked" the gear shaft it was just two taps with a relative heavy bronze bar on the spanner to release the nut. Crankshaft came out for inspection and seems to be in good shape.

Now cleaning all parts and bring them parts to a professional workshop for measuring, grinding etc. etc.
Than the funny parts starts, assembly !!

Ruurd

[mgcjag]

Are you removeing the crank sludge plugs and cleaning out the crank.....Steve

[abowie]

Are you removeing the crank sludge plugs and cleaning out the crank.....Steve

Vital to do this. I usually let the machine shop do it as it is quite difficult.

Also get them to chase the threads for you as the old plugs will have been peened in with a punch and it is very easy to cross thread the new plugs.

The usuals sell original plugs and generic aftermarket ones. From experience the generic ones are of poor quality and can be hard to fit.