I figured I would share this with everyone on the forum since I couldn't find any information on this. As those who have built motors know, the crank can be a pain to hold in place while torquing down things such as rod bolts and flywheels/flexplates. This is especially important if you use plastigage for checking bearing clearance.

Since I have been working alone on my engine and didn't have a second hand to help, I figured I would make a billet crank lock. What I cam up with something that bolted to the face of the block and had four incremented keyways allowing for easy clocking of the crank for rod installation and torquing. I have enough material left to make a couple more if anyone is interested in one. If I make more I will most likely add four more keyways at 45 degree increments.

I figured this was a better option than a flywheel lock since they are about $85 last I checked and sometimes it is near impossible to put the flywheel on while the block is on the engine stand. While this doesn't help with installing the crank pulley, it sure helps while assembling the short block and in my case installing the flexplate.

Let me know what you guys think. Motor is going to be a 383 with 12.5:1 compression.

 

Nice Work! Nice crank as well

 

Good creativity! That is what hot roddin' is all about.

 

Lol. The crank and rods are awesome! Not that you are bias or anything

 

Good job excellent tool.

 

Thanks! I am about to go out into the garage and start working on the motor once more!

 

Here is a picture of the crank stop with the front two rods installed and torqued for checking bearing clearance. Rod clearance was just under .0025". Now it is onto cleaning everything really well once again and starting the final assembly of the block! I am going to finish making some more stops this week with the extra material I had sitting around. I will most likely put them up for sale for $35 shipped in the lower 48.

 

That is a FANTASTIC looking tool! I'm interested in one!

 

Already paid for one! Can't wait to my stuff back from the machine shop.

 

All ready to go out tomorrow! Here is the updated version I am shipping you!

 

Looks slick. How did you broach the keyways if you don't mind me asking? Just from the clean lines looks like you have access to some nice machinery.

 

I'll take one. PM me payment info. Thanks

 

I'll take one as well. It's much better than the makeshift piece I've been using that bolts to the crank flange... What a PITA to constantly bolt and unbolt it on an engine stand. Your idea is genius. If possible, please PM me with info.

Thanks,
Shane

 

Using a really small tool.... .035" diameter tool to be exact....

 

That's similar to what I've been using and it F'ing BLOWS. That tool makes me hate my life. This one will be much better.

 

I still have a couple of these left from the left over material I had if anyone is interested.

 

i'll take one..send me you payment info.........thanks Bob

 

x2 Me aswell!

 

All the locks have been shipped! Only a couple left and they are gone!

 

sent ya a pm.