Crankshaft Pulley question
 

I'm about to replace the front main seal (and timing belt) on my 96 dx for the first time.

If anyone has done it before, can you give me some pointers what to look out for. I have the Haynes and Mitchell but I know there's always a shortcut somewhere.

It says to remove all the belts and whatnot, but would it be wiser If I left them on so that they actually help hold the pulley when I loosen the pulley nut.

And also, what size is the crankshaft pulley nut.

Re:Crankshaft Pulley question
 

I can't remember what size the nut is, but I remember when taking mine off, after trying every other suggestion given(including impact wrench, flame, and penetrating oil (not at the same time)) what finally broke mine loose was a long peice of (PVC plastic of all things) pipe. I quess basically I'm saying have a really long breaker bar handy, I didn't have one. I don't think the belts being on will make any difference.

Re:Crankshaft Pulley question
 

Instructions are your friend, if there was an easy way it would be in there those are good manuals. Short cuts equal problems in the long run

Re:Crankshaft Pulley question
 

pull off your starter and wedge a big screwdriver in the flywheel teeth so the cranck won't turn while you fighting the bolt

Re:Crankshaft Pulley question
 

works great and you can do it by yourself.
the bolt should be 17mm. try to use an impact socket if you have one. spray some penetrating lube and let it sit for awhile, also hit the head of the bolt a few times. last use a long pipe for leverage.
good luck.

Re:Crankshaft Pulley question
 

I use PB Blaster... Spray it a couple of times a day and let it penetrate for a day or two. Get a 17mm long socket and breaker bar (no extensions) and find a way to lock up the crank (either with the screwdriver, putting the car in 5th gear and having someone step on the brakes OR getting a crank pulley wrench). Put the socket and breaker bar on and kick it really ------- hard. You need to jolt it loose.

Re:Crankshaft Pulley question
 

Dude, trust me...go spend the extra money on that crank pulley tool....it's well worth it. Especially if you've never had it off before. And yeah, it is 17mm. Take all the belts off, makes life alot easier in the long run, and follow the manual. If you have the pulley tool, all you need is a long extension and the pulley bolt cranks right off. I've got mine down to a science...new belt on my d16z6, then back together and running in 30 minutes ;D