Manually turn over a 3.0 - how hard should it be?

[arrkerr]

How hard should it be to turn over a mercruiser (gm block) 3.0 by hand with the plugs removed, boat out of gear (can freely spin prop)? I can't get a good grip on anything other than the accessory belt / alternator, and it doesn't want to move. I don't see any good place to stick a wrench on it, and the pully from the crank is blocked by the motor mount.

The starter seemed to turn it just fine, but per a prior post my starter had issues, and I want to turn it by hand to examine the fly wheel. The boat also runs fine, had good oil, etc.

All I can think of now is to try a crowbar on the flywheel... but I hear people say they can turn theirs by hand, and it makes me paranoid.

 

[arrkerr]

Re: Manually turn over a 3.0 - how hard should it be?

Ok, thanks! What a releif! People made it sound so easy!

So how can I inspect my flywheel if I can't easly rotate the crank?

 

[MikDee]

Re: Manually turn over a 3.0 - how hard should it be?

Just hit the starter!

Seriously though put a socket, or wrench on the alternator pulley, and turn it that way, you won't loosen it by going clockwise (that nut is tighter then a clam anyway), nor will you break, or hurt anything. Besides the alt. pulley is way smaller then the crank pulley, so you'll have leverage in your favor. You may have to choke the serpentine belt a little, if it slips (meaning put a little side pressure on the belt), till the crank turns. Once you break it free, it should crank easier, but remember, you're turning the universal, & water pump, so make sure you keep turning in the right direction.