Rotating The Engine

[seefive]

Hi

 

Slightly off topic for this board I know, but..

 

As some of you know, I recently bought a 1966 Ford Anglia, nmy first venture into classic cars.

I want to check/clean/replace the points, as there is a very slight misfire on idle.

 

Question is - what's the best way to rotate the engine? I'm also planning to replace the rocker cover gasket, and would like to adjust the tappets at the same time, so I will need to rotate the engine for this too.

 

This probably sounds like a foreign language for younger members on this board, but I would greatly appreciate help from any "old schoolers" - or classic owners.

 

The car is too modern to have a starting handle, unfortunately

 

If you're interested in the car, there are photo's in the C5 technical section, thread "And my new car is"

 

Many thanks

[paul.h]

Easiest way to turn the engine is to put it in gear (first or reverse but if turns too fast then second) and then push the car a touch whilst watching the points/rockers/etc. Other option if access is ok and probably more accurate, is with the gears in neutral, to use a socket/ring spanner on the crankshaft pulley bolt, turning it clockwise so it does not undo. It may help to undo the spark plugs so it is easier to turn but probably not necessary. If you do not have them, a timing light and dwell meter will come in handy.

[seefive]

Easiest way to turn the engine is to put it in gear (first or reverse but if turns too fast then second) and then push the car a touch whilst watching the points/rockers/etc. Other option if access is ok and probably more accurate, is with the gears in neutral, to use a socket/ring spanner on the crankshaft pulley bolt, turning it clockwise so it does not undo. It may help to undo the spark plugs so it is easier to turn but probably not necessary. If you do not have them, a timing light and dwell meter will come in handy.

 

 

Thanks for that. Looks like I can get a wrench and socket on the bolt. Pushing the car in gear doesn't seem to move it at all. There again I normally park in gear, as a failsafe for the handbrake, so not sure how the car is supposed to move when in gear.