Turning the engine by hand?

1969 CADILLAC DEVILLE

73,500 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

CHEVY__88

MEMBER
104 POSTS

The vehicle listed above has been sitting for about 20 years or so. It was running when parked. Still has fluids, radiator had green fluid, until I tilted it, and then brown fluid came out. Some wires have been eaten by animals, so I can't/don't want to try putting a battery in it and burning something up. So, I've heard about turning it by hand. Do I need to pull off the crank pulley? There is no nut to turn.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Apr 9, 2024 at 10:11 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,554 POSTS

The center bolt should be there under the dirt which you will need to clean off.

Here is a guide to help show you how to turn the engine over by hand:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-seized-test

Please upload pictures or videos in your response to the problem so we can see what's going on.

Apr 9, 2024 at 10:35 AM

CHEVY__88

MEMBER
104 POSTS

So, it seems like there's a cork in the middle, I didn't want to dig it out without knowing 100%. I'll give it a try.

Apr 9, 2024 at 10:47 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,554 POSTS

Okay, that's right on this engine the balancer is just pressed on. You might need to rig something on two of the pulley bolts or use the flex plate to see if the engine turns, you might want to remove all spark plugs before you begin.

Apr 9, 2024 at 10:53 AM

CHEVY__88