914-6 tech help needed, How to access fan belt and find TDC Options

[bgravolet]

Hello all, can you please help. I don't want to cut an access hole or drop the engine... But can you tell me how to access the pulley and remove the nut to change the fan belt? I've tried everything and would need four triple jointed arms it seems.

Also, how do you find TDC easily so I can adjust the valves?

Thank you in advance.

Ben

[SLITS]

First, is it a conversion or a "real" six? If it is a conversion using the early 901 flywheel, the marks will probably not line up (front pulley marks vs flywheel marks). The early flywheel is marked for a 2.0L and for whatever reason the later engines 2.2 up, the marks are off (my experience with 5 engines).

2nd, there is a gap between the engine and tranny that the flywheel can be seen, but requires cutting the engine tin and a hole in the rear trunk upper firewall so you can see the split in the case and the flywheel marks. At least this is the case on a CIS engine, not sure about a carbed engine. Not near my car to post an image.

You can also adjust the valves by the "look for the base circle" method. With the valve covers off, you can see the lobe of the cam and it's position. As long as the follower is on the base circle of the cam lobe, you can adjust that valve.

I rotate the engine, in the direction of running, by the alternator nut and pinching the fan belt (spark plugs removed).

Tis far easier to remove the backpad and cut a hole in the firewall to see the crank pulley / fan housing marks and also gives access to the distributor for timing.

And in the end, it is easier to drop the engine to do the above jobs unless you have cut the hole. I have tried mirrors to no avail ... I guess I'm just not that good of a mechanic.

That's my take after building two conversions (2.4L & 2.7L). Your experience may vary.

I now understand why shops get big bucks for doing a valve adjustment / tuneup on a /6. It is pure torture ..........

Changing the fan belt ...... I hope you do your best work by "feel" and have the appropriate fan pulley tool for your engine.