Possible jammed starter gear

[Traveler74]

Today I tried to turn the engine over by hand. I failed. (1996 V-6, automatic)
I removed the spark plugs, put Tranny in neutral and applied force to the crank shaft bolt, using a 19mm socket and a 3/8 inch breaker bar with a long pipe over it. I used perhaps 50 lbs of force (clock-wise) and it would not budge.
Since I had been having starter/solenoid issues, I wonder if it is possible that the starter gear is jammed/broken off in the flywheel ? If so, would that keep the engine from being hand cranked ??? :shrug:
Removing the starter is the last hope for this truck. If I can't hand crank it, I'll have to walk away from it.

 

[RandyBobandy]

If you are able to, I would unbolt the starter and see if you can turn it over. Also inspect the teeth on the flex plate. Although unlikely I would think that the starter could jam and cause your vehicle to stall after running like it has been doing, but I’ve never heard of that happening.

 

[Devbot]

In regards to pulling the starter, don't forget to remove the tranny fill tube. It's actually a two piece design that press together with an O-ring just below the starter. I fought my unit for probably an hour, pulled the tube apart and magically was able to pull it out in minutes.

 

[Devbot]

What was the verdict, were you able to get the starter out?
Don't give up yet. I was on the verge of selling my truck when chasing the knock sensor gremlin I had, but after I finally nailed it down I never had another one pop up. You could always take it to a shop too