Crankshaft nut modification

[Lin]

If you are installing the engine with gearbox attached in a 3000 we all know it can be a little tight. Is there any reason (other than to just stay original) why one couldn't (wouldn't) grind off the ears on the nut to pick up an extra half inch of clearance since they serve no purpose on our cars? Just wondering. Thoughts?

I will be installing my engine within the month I hope and so now is the time to do this if it is to be done.

Lin
1960 BT7 in restoration
1959 Bugeye

 

[Keoke]

Don't seem like that small bit of additional clearance is worth the effort since it adds no new maintenance capability to the car Lin.---Fwiw---Keoke

 

[Dave Russell]

On mine, I just chucked it in the lathe & turned the stuff off because it looked ugly. Took about a minute. Who needs a hand crank starter nut anyway. Without it, I can actually get a wrench on the nut to turn the engine.
D

 

[Lin]

Thanks gentlemen. In this case I think I will follow Dave's lead and clean up the nut. A 1/2" isn't a lot I will admit Keoke, but I think it will help a bit. Just don't want to scrape up that new paint you know.

Lin