How do you turn a CU engine?

[InventEd]

I am sure this must have been asked before but I can't find it.

What do you use to turn the crankshaft on a CU engine so you can position for checking the tappets? Can you get a tool to do it?

Checking my tappets on Wednesday.

Thanks

[bigherb]

Chock the wheels preferably on a flat surface, jack one rear wheel off the ground (easiest is the wheel opposite the side of the valves you want to adjust so you can see the valves rocking), put it in fourth gear release the hand brake turn the wheel to turn the engine.

[BOXY]

Or take off the basket over the fly-wheel. Then turn the nut on the end of the crank with a socket and an extension bar through the number plate flap. I think the socket is 14mm?

[InventEd]

great, thanks. Auto box so can't do the wheel spin trick. Will use the nut - Is it man enough for the job?

[bigherb]

It is only M8 remove the spark plugs first to give a chance otherwise the bolt can undo when turning the engine.

[blacky]

I have turned engines by sticking screwdriver through fan between alt and belt pulley and turning whilst pressing firmly on belt to keep it deep into pulley for "bite" I have done this even without removing plugs but can't remember if its accessible on CU as I sold mine, but I'm fairly sure I did it on that particular engine.

[BOXY]

I bow to bigherb's more accurate bolt sizing skills. I would have put money on it being 14mm. And I would have lost.

[bigherb]

The best way is to make a tool (especially if you have an auto) similar to the VW tool out of a socket with a 38mm outside diameter that then fits into the fan hub and a bolt head too engage with the slot in the hub, you can then turn the engine by just inserting a socket extension and ratchet.