Always been very visual & struggling with the description of putting a “small” 2x4 between the block & crank. Finding I can’t wedge one between but I’m sure I’m misinterpreting in my head… can anyone shed some light on which direction & which dimension should be braced where? I have tried it between the head & crank but can’t get my 2x4 in there it’s too thick… what am I doing wrong

 

Why would you do that? It just slides off, there is not taper or anything holding it on.

 

The oil pan comes off and the block of wood is inserted from below. The crank is rotated until one of the counterweights comes in contact with the wood, which is placed between the crank and the driver's side of the block. The wood is then held captive between the crank and the inner wall of the block, which prevents the crank from rotating further. With the crank held in place you can loosen the hub fastener.

 

Ahh, for loosening the bolt. I totally misunderstood what he was asking. Just stick I 1/2 extension in through the hole in the flexplate to hold it.

 

I have the oil sump off - I found an old metal pole & was able to brace it….

I’m examining the surface and seeing a claw like gouge near the bottom… I don’t see any cracks or breaks in the outer ring though… does this mean I need a new whole new pump? 😭

 

Did it have low oil pressure? Looks fine to me.

 

I can't tell how deep the gouge is but I agree with Extinct. Everything looks otherwise really good so confirming the pressure would be the only way to tell if the gouge is affecting anything. I suspect it isn't since there's no way for the gouge to create any real pressure bypass. In this case, if the pressure were low from the gouge you would need to replace to front cover.

 

How strange, that gouge almost looks machined.

 

AKA, "clearanced to fit once installed."