I have replaced 6-8 timing belts over the years on the 240.'s. I also have done the, water pump, timing belt, and front seals once or twice. But it has been years. The last time, I did it in the driveway, with no air tools, or special tools to hold anything.

To remove the crank bolt, I wacked a 1/2 ratchet with a 3 pound sledge a few times, and I was able to get it off and on that way. Stupid, and dangerous, yes. But, I improvise, and never give up I am stubborn that way.

Anyway, I have searched the forums, and I am looking for for step by step quickest way and any little tricks would be appreciated. I have read about the rope trick, but I am afraid the rope would knot up when pulling out the rope. I already have the front of the engine apart, down to the timing belt, cam and idle shaft sprockets are still on, as is the balancer pulleys. Also, I believe that I did not remove the cover that houses the front main, I would like to skip pulling that because I don't have a gasket, or want to hassle with scraping the old gasket off if possible.

I also seem to have trouble getting the marks all to line up when installing the timing belt. Any tips there? Thanks for any responses.