Firstfives.org

Hi all,

I tried searching the archives before posting this, but didn't have much luck. Pierre and I are embroiled in an auto-to-5speed conversion of my '80 528i. We removed the transmission without the torque converter attached and are now trying to figure out how to keep the engine from turning so that we can unbolt the torque converter from the flexplate.

Does anyone have any insight?

Thanks in advance!

Put a wrench/socket on the large crank nut (36mm??). That will keep the crank from turning, as it is put on with 350 ft-lbs .

grumpsjr wrote:Hi all,

I tried searching the archives before posting this, but didn't have much luck. Pierre and I are embroiled in an auto-to-5speed conversion of my '80 528i. We removed the transmission without the torque converter attached and are now trying to figure out how to keep the engine from turning so that we can unbolt the torque converter from the flexplate.

Does anyone have any insight?

Thanks in advance!

Do you have an impact wrench? In such situations, I try to use my impact, as the engine compression should be enough resistance to spin off the bolts.

I usually use a screwdriver in the flywheel teeth. Those aren't bad to get loose, the flywheel to crank ones are usually much more difficult without an impact. An offset 17 does make it easier IIRC.

Thanks everyone! Will give this a try this weekend and report back.

grumpsjr wrote:Thanks everyone! Will give this a try this weekend and report back.

They finally came off.