Dear Robert,

Good p.m. I have no knowledge of B6xxx engines. I dislike the concept of introducing any foreign material into a cylinder. I would only do this, if there were literally no other way, to get the job done.

Before I got the counter-hold tool - which holds the crank pulley in place, while the crank bolt is loosened or tightened - I used a 1/4"-wide, straight tipped screwdriver, to lock the engine. The screwdrive tip - per the FAQs - should be inserted into the ring gear teeth, right next to the bell-housing's edge.

If not more than 1/2" of the screwdriver tip is inserted, it will not damage anything. The screwdriver should be positioned against the side of the bell-housing, such that when the crank bolt is turned, the slightest movement locks the screwdriver into place.

One does have to go under the car, and remove the aluminum (aluminium) brace, at the front of the oil pan (six hex nuts). If one lacks the counter-hold tool and cannot get under the car, then use of rope inside the cylinder, is the last resort.

A possible alternative might be to fill the cylinder with gasoline, and then replace the spark plug. This, too, should jam the piston. However, one will need a suction device to remove the gasoline. If an attempt is made to start the engine, while the cylinder is filled with gasoline, severe damage could be done, including breaking a con rod.

In short, if you don't have the counter-hold tool, go under the car and use the screw-driver. It is the least risky method.

Yours faithfully,

spook