I'm in the process of changing out my engine bearings with the crank in.
I've been having trouble getting the upper main bearings in. I had loosened up all the main bearing journals and then read that using the oil feeder hole on the crank with a cotter pin was a good idea. This requires turning the crank.
If I remember correctly from changing my head gasket, the crank was not all that difficult to turn. I think I did it with a 3/8 ratchet last time.
This time, I maxed out my 150 ft/lbs torque wrench and then switch to my lighter, 18" breaker bar. I was able to move it a tiny bit, but not enough to help (just a couple of degrees).
Obviously the oil has been drained, but I can't image that is the problem
The journals are all still loose.
I don't want to keep cranking on it like that, something doesn't seem right. I also put both the transmission (5-spd) and the t-case in neutral. I can't think of anything else, so I'm hoping you call can help me, it's already been too long since I've driven my truck!
Thanks!

 

i had the same problem when i first got my 22r rebuilt...but now i cant remember what the problem was.....

 

I've poped off all the spark plugs to, in case the pressure from inside the pistons was the problem, still no good :/

 

Stupid question maybe, but do you have the trans in neutral?

Crap, nevermind, you said it was.

(there needs to be a delete post button)

 

Yup, it's in neutral,spark plugs out, won't hardly budge
Anybody?? I really need to get this done

 

Could the bering journals be binding since you loosened them?

 

I'm not entirely sure what you mean... none of the journals are touching the crank at this point.
I have my first upper bearing about 1/4 of the way in (as far as I could get it by hand), it's in the number 2 journal.
I'm replacing the old bearings with standard size bearings, the pastigauge head read about .05 across the crank, which is within standard tolerance.