Is my engine seized? How can I check?

[Pete30]

I have an 87 OMC Cobra w/ a 3.0L GM engine that has been sitting for almost 2 years. I plan on rebuilding the starter and alternator, but before spending the money I would like to know if the engine is completely seized up. Basically I would like to know how to check if the engine will turn once I get the cranking system going. Thanks for any feedback!

 

[flashback]

Re: Is my engine seized? How can I check?

remove the spark plugs, spray a little light oil(wd40) in the cylinders and then try to turn it over by hand. you may need to use a wrench on the large nut that holds the Harmonic balancer on the crankshaft.......but it should turn over easily. be sure the drive is in neutral although it should still turn over even if it is in gear.

 

[karayj]

Re: Is my engine seized? How can I check?

if you cannot turn the engine with a wrench put the engine in gear then turn the prop

 

[Pete30]

Re: Is my engine seized? How can I check?

Thanks for the info guys, just so I don't damage anything, how hard should I try to turn the wrench, and if the prop turns, how difficult should it be to move? Oh, one more thing, if I get it to move, should I then change the oil again (I just recently changed it after 1.5 years). Thanks again!

 

[ICEMAN]

Re: Is my engine seized? How can I check?

It will be harder to turn the motor with the prop, due to gear ratios. Putting the wrench on the front of the motor is better. If you can turn it with the spark plugs out, your OK. If you can not turn it, your not done yet. It's possible the drive unit is seized, not allowing the motor to rotate. You'd have to remove the drive and re-check the motor, then you'll know if it's the motor or drive unit that's seized.

 

[conimicut1]

Re: Is my engine seized? How can I check?

Remove spark plugs and give it a try by hand, no starter. just make sure you put a good amount of oil in each cylider before any attempts at turning. The bores will have some rust in them and if you make the pistons go through the rust dry you will put alot of wear on the piston rings, kinda like 100 hours of wear in a second! I like spraying alot of wd40 first the day before and then adding the oil a few minutes before turning. About a tablespoon of oil per cylinder. Use a 1/2 rachet for some torque. One person should be able to turn it over with this, if you can't do it, start looking for problems.

 

[Pete30]

Re: Is my engine seized? How can I check?

Thanks everyone, I'm working on it tonight, I'll let you know what I find out.