[alfa] Crank Lock Tool - Update

[TJCallahan@xxxxxxx]

Thought it time that I said thanks and updated y'all on the locking of the 
crank so I can re-torque the flywheel bolts on the Alfetta.

Many thanks to all who responded to my question about how to lock the engine 
so that the flywheel bolts could be torqued insitu. After many great 
responses, there seemed to be three unique suggestions on how to lock the flywheel 
insitu -

1. Rope in the spark plug hole;

2. A flywheel lock tool (the factory one or possibly the VW one); and

3. A variation of the rope using a spark plug base and a rod welded to it.

I procured a length of rope and a VW tool (and considered the thread-in tool 
for a while but decided against it after considering my experience over the 
years with the 1600 spark plug threads) and have those sitting in the Alfetta 
trunk awaiting a time for use.

While procuring said tools, I grew curious and concerned over the increasing 
frequency and volume of the rattle out of the freshly rebuilt Alfetta engine 
and took it to Mr. Ingram's shop for an experienced ear to hear it. It has 50 
miles on it and knocks worse than anything. Loud knocks. So, off to the shop 
for a diagnosis.

Many thanks to Steve Schaeffer for the use of his trailer in getting the 
Alfetta to the shop. We learned a little about the placement of the front positive 
stops on the trailer when trailering a 60's GTA vs a 70's GTV (Alfetta 
style). With the stops set up for Steve's front engined GTA, the Alfetta's 50/50 
distribution put too much weight on the back of the trailer and the van+trailer 
were swaying a lot. A quick stop to roll the car forward by 6-8 inches helped 
immensely and the rig settled right down.

As far as diagnosing the sound goes, neither the experienced mechanics nor 
myself can find a smoking gun yet, so we're dropping the oil pan and will 
inspect the lower end.

If you're so inclined, prayers would be gratefully accepted.

Tom
Seattle
6310123
7711615 (ummm, no puns about *the tart* being knocked up, please)
[to be continued ...]
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