Can I manually crank my 1974 914 2.0 engine?

I have the engine and drive train on the bench and want to confirm it is not seized up. If I remove the spark plugs, how can I turn it over without using the starter?

With the plugs out, loosen the alternator belt, spin the fan...

Thanks, I will give it a try tomorrow.

Thanks, I will give it a try tomorrow.

Just be carefull when you grab the fan, the fan blades can be quite brittle. Dont use them for leverage.

You should be able to turn it by rhe flywheel with the spark plugs it.
Bruce

Put 12 volts to the starter. If the starter won't crank it, it's frozen.

Naturally it depends on the history of that engine (recent mechanical failure or it's been sitting outside for 30 years?), but if there's one or more seized pistons and you use the starter, there's a chance a rod could bend, just like if a cylinder had water in it. Use Bruce or Mgphoto's advice just to be safe.

I know, been there, done that...

Thanks for your reply.

When's the last time the engine ran? Has it been sitting long? If it is froze up and hasn't been sitting long I would try pouring Marvels Mystery Oil down the plug holes and let it soak for a few days then see if you can free it up. If not pull the heads and see what you got going on in there.

If you have a couple pieces of pipe, rebar, etc: Put two of the old CV joint bolts (ones you will throw out) into both hubs on the trans. Put the trans in 5th. Put one piece of pipe in one side of the trans so it jams against the workbench.

Turn the opposite side with another piece of pipe and this will turn the engine.

KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid)


Take a 13mm socket, put it on the end of a 8 inch extension. Use a long ratchet and turn the bolt in the middle of the fan like you are tightening it. If it is not frozen, it will turn the engine.

Nailed!
Turns over easily, no bbroken fan blades.
Next is bench testing. All comments on the best set up and procedures are welcome.
Cheers!