fan mount bolts

[Porter]

Wrapping up a timing belt job. Is there any special trick to tightening these four 12mm nuts that mount to the fan bracket studs- can't get any torque with a box wrench, and of course there's no clearance for a ratchet. Fan unit wants to spin free, and nuts are easily stripped. Cussing hasn't worked to this point; perhaps a morning beer is in order. Suggestions appreciated. This step maybe the most challenging of the process.

 

[bucfl]

Try a long screw driver. I titghtened by hand one at a time. Then use ratchet to finish. It's a pain. Patience! Lol

 

[Porter]

thanks for reply- yes, patience is being tested. Will try the screwdriver method. Assuming the spanner tool is the right thing for this job? None of the local shops carry Toyota rated tool, might order one online, although having difficulty finding. None of the timing belt write ups mentioned this step being a PITA, guessing I'm an outlier, as usual!

 

[tcpsoft]

Just ordered this a few weeks ago and it works great.

Amazon.com: Universal Fan Clutch Water Pump Pulley Holding Tool: Automotive

I replaced the fan clutch without it last year and it was a huge pain and took wayyyy too long. Replaced the fan bracket two weeks ago and only I cussed 5 or 6 times - none related to the fan nuts

 

[Porter]

Thanks for the link – just ordered. Really need to update the timing belt and FAQ-will do with a pic when received and done.

 

[Porter]

Here's the solution. Large vise grips from my mobile mechanic friend. He was a bit surprised how challenging this was- very little operational clearance and rounded mount base is tricky.

Grabbed the pulley and mount base to hold stationary while tightening nuts.

 

[tone33]

Pry bar and long box wrench worked well for me - credit to @OTRAMM videos.