86, 87 spree crankcase/crankshaft binding

[otto-man]

I'm rebuilding a 1987 Spree engine and when I tighten the right and left hand crankcase halves together, the crank won't turn. I'm not even close to torque specs when it binds up. I made a gasket from gasket material that seems to be the same thickness as OEM. I've tried two different cranks....same thing. What am I doing wrong! Thanks

[paulpauly7]

you dont press the cases together you hav to pull the crank into each half.Doing it the way you are you will put the crank out of true then you will have to pay someone to balance it up for you.search for the tusk crank puller and buy one or rent one if you can

[otto-man]

Thanks for your reply! I have a Tusk crank puller and used it for the project. I used my shop press to remove the crank, and both times used the Tusk to install crank. The last time , I got it close, then tried bringing the cases together by alternating tightening the 5 case bolts. Same result both times. Would any of the above bent the crank? Thanks

[swimmingfree]

i dont have all the tool like you have but i have had the same thing happen to me had to tap the crank one way or the other to get it to work smoth ..
swimmingfree

[Trafficjamz]

are you sure the crank is from the correct year?

not all spree cranks are the same.

try thicker gasket material.