gday all, i have a 2001 praire 400 4x4. the recoil starter would not wind up so removed it found that the gasket was gone. in the process of putting back together noticed that there was oil seeping from the crank bolt. it needs a new seal in it. one problem, every time that i try to take the bolt out the engine turns over. how do i stop the motor from turning. i have herd to put a piece of rope in the spark plug hole and this will jam the pistion up, sounds a little risky, anyone have any other ideas?
thanks
madtyper
praire 400
giddy up

 

Use an impact wrench to get it off. Go buy a torque stick when you put it back, or buy kawasaki's engine holder tool. I would stay away from the rope in piston trick. I am sure it will work, but if one of the valves is open, that could be a very bad trick.