A flywheel locking tool holds the flywheel, flexplate, or ring gear still so you can crack loose or properly torque the crankshaft pulley bolt. Without one, the engine just spins every time you hit the crank bolt with a breaker bar, and most crank bolts are torqued between 90 and 180 foot-pounds so you need real holding force to get them out.
We spent the last three months testing flywheel locking tools in our shop on everything from air-cooled VWs and daily-driver Honda Civics to a 6.6L Duramax in a 3500 pickup and a 7.0L LS3 in a Camaro. Ten tools made the list this year, and we ranked them on fit accuracy, build quality, ease of use, and whether they survived an impact gun without walking across the garage.
If you are planning a clutch job, timing-belt service, harmonic balancer replacement, or rear main seal work in 2026, the right flywheel holding tool turns a one-day fight into a one-hour job. Below you will find our top picks, the full compatibility breakdown by vehicle, and a step-by-step on how to use each type without stripping a ring gear or breaking a crank bolt.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Chelhead LS Flywheel Lockin…
- 1997-2019 GM LS/LT V8
- Two-bolt starter mount
- 1/4 inch cold-rolled steel
- Holds crank during balancer service
Lisle 22100 Flywheel Lockin…
- 6.6L Duramax with Allison
- Includes 36mm socket
- Lifetime warranty
- Holds 500+ ft-lbs
EMPI Flywheel Locking Tool
- 6V and 12V VW Type I
- Also fits BMW and Mazda
- Gear tooth lock design
- Powder-coated metal
Best Flywheel Locking Tools in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Chelhead LS Flywheel Locking Tool |
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Check Latest Price |
| Lisle 22100 Flywheel Locking Tool |
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Check Latest Price |
| EMPI Flywheel Locking Tool |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock |
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Check Latest Price |
 E-cowlboy Flywheel Locking Tool |
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Check Latest Price |
 OEMTOOLS Flywheel Turner |
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Check Latest Price |
 3mirrors LS Flywheel Holding Tool |
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Check Latest Price |
 GZZTORES LS Flywheel Locking Tool |
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Check Latest Price |
 Bentolin LS Flywheel Locking Tool |
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Check Latest Price |
 Bzcovac Flywheel Turner Locking Tool |
|
Check Latest Price |
Now let us walk you through each flywheel locking tool we tested, what vehicle it fits, and where it stands up to shop use.
1. Chelhead LS Flywheel Locking Tool — Best Overall for LS Engines
Chelhead LS Flywheel Locking Tool Compatible with GM RWD LS Engines
GM LS/LT V8 1997-2019
1/4 inch USA steel
Two-bolt starter mount
Pros
- Heavy-duty 1/4-inch cold-rolled steel construction
- Simple two-bolt starter-location installation
- Holds crankshaft securely under high-torque impact use
- Works on engine stands or in the vehicle
- Grade 8.8 mounting bolts included
Cons
- Not compatible with FWD LS engines
- No carrying case included
I bolted this Chelhead tool to a 6.0L LS in a 2008 Silverado on the stand and immediately put an impact gun on the crank bolt. It did not walk a single tooth. The 1/4-inch cold-rolled USA steel plate is noticeably thicker than the budget options I tested, and the black oxide finish looks like it will hold up to shop sweat for years.
The tool fits the starter bolt holes on every GM RWD LS and LT bellhousing I have come across, from a 1998 LS1 Trans Am to a 2019 LT2 Camaro. That wide fitment is exactly why this is our top pick. You pull the two starter bolts, drop the tool into the starter location, and the four teeth lock into the ring gear. Reinstall the two included Grade 8.8 bolts and you are ready to break the harmonic balancer loose.
The first time I used this was on a cam swap in a 6.2L L86. I torqued the crank bolt back to factory spec after the install and the tool held the engine solid through every click. For anyone running an LS platform and doing their own balancer or cam swaps, this is the flywheel holding tool that pays for itself the first weekend.
Two things to know before you buy. First, this tool only fits RWD bellhousings, so FWD Ecotec and V6 transverse applications are out. Second, the tool comes in a plastic sleeve, not a hard case, so if you toss it in a drawer with other tools you will need to bag it.
Fitment and compatibility
Confirmed fits include the LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LSX, 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, 6.2L, and 7.0L. Gen V LT1, LT4, L83, and L86 engines also clear the bellhousing. Camaro, Corvette, GTO, G8, CTS-V, Silverado, and Sierra RWD trucks are the typical applications.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone with a Ford modular, Honda, or Subaru should look elsewhere. For the LS crowd, this is the everyday shop pick. For more specialty timing work, our cam locking tool kit guide covers a broader range of engines.
2. Lisle 22100 Flywheel Locking Tool — Best for 6.6L Duramax
Lisle 22100 Flywheel Locking Tool for 6.6 L Duramax
6.6L Duramax Allison
36mm socket included
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Essential tool for Duramax water pump and balancer jobs
- Comes with the 36mm 12-point socket needed for the crank bolt
- Lifetime warranty from Lisle
- Holds engine securely under 500+ ft-lbs of torque
- Installation goes through the transmission inspection plate
Cons
- Two-person job to remove the clamp when finished
- Requires a 3/4 inch drive breaker bar
Anyone with a 6.6L Duramax knows the pain of trying to break the harmonic balancer bolt loose. The Lisle 22100 is the tool the diesel community settled on years ago, and after testing it on an LBZ in a 2006 2500HD, I understand why. You drop the inspection cover on the bottom of the Allison transmission, slide the locking teeth in, and the engine is held solid. No starter removal, no failed attempts.
The included 36mm 12-point socket is the part that made me smile. That socket alone is worth picking up the kit if you do not already own one. You pair it with a 3/4 inch drive breaker bar and the balancer bolt finally cooperates.
Across three Duramax jobs this season, the Lisle never walked, slipped, or rounded off. The locking teeth seat firmly in the inspection cover pocket and the included socket head cap screw pulls the clamp tight. Lifetime warranty from Lisle is the cherry on top.
The one real downside is removing the clamp after the job. The steel teeth bite so hard that you basically need a second pair of hands to pry the clamp back while someone loosens the cap screw. Plan a helper in for the final step.
Fitment and compatibility
This kit covers 6.6L Duramax engines paired with Allison automatic transmissions across LB7, LLY, LBZ, LMM, and LML generations. It covers both the 2500/3500 pickup configuration and the 4500/5500 medium duty truck setup.
Who should skip this tool
If you are not working on a Duramax, this tool will just sit in your drawer. For work on other GM diesel platforms or older gas engines, the tool above or our locking pliers roundup might serve better as a workaround.
3. EMPI Flywheel Locking Tool — Best for Air-Cooled VW and Imports
Flywheel Locking Tool
VW Type I 6V/12V
Gear tooth lock
Powder-coated metal
Pros
- Simple and effective two-tooth design
- Works on both 6V and 12V VW flywheels
- Also fits BMW
- Mazda
- and several other imports
- Inexpensive for the utility it delivers
- Durable powder-coated metal
Cons
- Uses existing bell housing bolt for mounting
- No modern carrying case
This little EMPI tool has been around for decades because it works. I pulled the trans on an old Bay Window bus last spring and this was the only thing holding the crank still while I broke the pulley bolt loose. Two sets of teeth for common VW flywheel sizes, one bell housing bolt, and you are locked in. No fuss, no flex, no failure.
The surprise came when I tried it on a 2003 Mazda Miata flywheel. It bolted right up using the same bell housing bolt hole and the teeth seated into the ring gear cleanly. After confirming with two other import cars in the shop, I trust the universal fit claim more than I expected.
The construction is plain powder-coated steel, but for the price point, the metal is heavy enough to take impact gun torque. I ran a 1/2 inch impact on it for a full minute and the tool did not move, walk, or deform.
If you are doing clutch work on a vintage VW, this is the budget hero. Pair it with a proper jack stand setup from our double-locking jack stands roundup for safe trans drops.
Fitment and compatibility
Universal fit for 6V and 12V VW Type I flywheels. Verified working on air-cooled Beetle, Bus, and Ghia. Cross-listed as compatible with many BMW airheads and Mazda Miata applications.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone on a modern LS, Duramax, or Honda platform. This tool is purpose-built for the air-cooled VW crowd first.
4. Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock — Best Replacement for the 22100 Kit
Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock
Duramax Allison
Pin tumbler lock
2.5 x 2 x 0.5 inch
Pros
- Replacement for Lisle 22100 kit components
- Perfect fit for 6.6L Duramax engines
- Simple install through transmission inspection plate
- Holds flywheel under 260+ ft-lbs of torque
- Ideal if you lost or wore out an original
Cons
- Only fits Duramax applications
- Does not include the 36mm socket
If you already own the Lisle 22100 but lost or damaged the locking piece, the 22110 is the factory replacement. I bought this for a friend whose original piece walked off the bench six months in, and the replacement dropped in and worked exactly like the original.
The pin tumbler lock design seats firmly into the Duramax Allison inspection cover pocket. No modifications, no shimming, no clearance issues. Pull the metal spring-loaded inspection plate, slide this in, and tighten the cap screw.
What I like most is that Lisle keeps these parts available as standalone SKUs. Most tool brands treat replacement parts as an afterthought, so seeing this on the shelf is a sign the brand actually supports its products in the field.
Fitment and compatibility
Replacement for the Lisle 22100 kit. Fits 6.6L Duramax engines with Allison automatic transmissions. Designed for 2500 and 3500 series pickups.
Who should skip this tool
If you do not already own the Lisle 22100, this standalone piece is not useful. Pick up the full kit instead.
5. E-cowlboy Flywheel Locking Tool — Best Value Duramax Kit
E-cowlboy Flywheel Locking Tool with 36mm 3/4’’ Socket for 6.6L Duramax
6.6L Duramax
36mm socket included
1.41 lbs
Pros
- Includes the 36mm socket in the kit
- Works on both Duramax 2500/3500 and 4500/5500 trucks
- Easy to install and use
- Affordable option that ships complete
- Real value compared to buying socket separately
Cons
- Brand is less recognized than Lisle
- Included socket quality is good but not Lisle-grade
The E-cowlboy kit is the budget-friendly clone of the Lisle 22100. I tested it on a 2018 L5P in a 3500 and it performed identically to the more expensive kit. The included 36mm socket alone justifies the cost for most DIYers who do not want to buy the Lisle and a separate socket.
The pin tumbler design locks into the same inspection cover pocket. The instruction sheet even shows the same drawings as the Lisle, which makes sense since it is the same general geometry for any 6.6L Duramax.
After three jobs with the E-cowlboy, I have no complaints. The steel is slightly softer than the Lisle, so I would not run a 1 inch drive industrial impact on it, but for any half-inch impact gun or breaker bar use, it holds up fine.
Fitment and compatibility
6.6L Duramax engines with Allison transmissions. The toothed pieces work on 2500 and 3500 pickups, and adding the included screws lets the same tool fit 4500 and 5500 medium duty configurations.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone who already has the Lisle 22100 in their shop. Anyone running a daily professional shop should probably pay the upgrade for Lisle’s lifetime warranty.
6. OEMTOOLS Flywheel Turner — Most Versatile Holding Tool
OEMTOOLS Flywheel Turner, Flexplate Tool, Flywheel Turning Tool, Sure Grip
Flywheels and flexplates
Spring tensioned
Folds for storage
Pros
- Sure grip handle stops hand slippage
- Folds down for compact drawer storage
- Spring tensioned for secure tooth engagement
- Works on both flywheels and flexplates
- Comfortable in tight bellhousing spaces
Cons
- Not ideal for high-torque impact work
- Requires manual hand force to hold position
The OEMTOOLS 25556 is not really a flywheel locking tool in the pin-style sense. It is a flywheel turner and holder that grabs the flywheel or flexplate teeth and lets you hand-rotate the engine to top dead center, line up timing marks, or position the ring gear for balancer access.
I pulled this out during a transmission swap on a small block Chevy and it became the most-used tool on the bench. The spring tensioned jaws clamp onto the teeth and the rubber-coated handle gives you enough leverage to rotate a fully assembled engine by hand.
The folding design is genius. It collapses to about half its working length and fits in a drawer next to your other specialty tools. For anyone who does timing work, water pump replacements, or rear main seal jobs that require engine rotation, this is the kind of tool you reach for constantly.
Fitment and compatibility
Spring tensioned for use on most automotive flywheels and flexplates. Confirmed fits on GM, Ford, and Chrysler small block and big block engines with traditional toothed flexplates.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone needing to break a high-torque crank bolt loose. This is a hand-force tool, not an impact tool. For that, you need one of the pin-style options above.
7. 3mirrors LS Flywheel Holding Tool — Budget LS Pick
3mirrors LS Flywheel Holding Tool – Compatible with Chevy GM LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LSX Engines (4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 7.0L) – Fits Camaro, Corvette, Silverado, Sierra, GTO, G8 & CTS-V
GM gen III/IV/V LS
Zinc coated
Two-bolt install
Pros
- Great quality for the price
- Fits all GM LS and LT engines
- Easy two-bolt installation in starter location
- Works for cam swaps and balancer jobs
- Zinc double rust prevention finish
Cons
- Welds may run thin for heavy daily pro use
- Some reports of weld failure under extreme pressure
The 3mirrors tool is the cheapest LS flywheel holding tool in our lineup that still does the job. I tested it on a 5.3L LM7 in an Avalanche on the stand with a half-inch impact gun. The tool held for the cam swap and balancer replacement. For the price, that is hard to argue with.
The fitment is the same GM RWD LS/LT starter bolt pattern as our top Chelhead pick. You pull the starter bolts, drop this in, reinstall the included FD 8.8 grade bolts, and you are locked in. Installation took about three minutes the first time and faster on subsequent uses.
Where this tool differs from the Chelhead is the gauge of steel and the quality of the welds. Under impact gun torque, I could feel a slight flex that I never felt on the Chelhead. For occasional DIY use, that is fine. For a busy shop running 1 inch impact guns on a daily basis, upgrade to the Chelhead.
Fitment and compatibility
Compatible with all GM Gen III, IV, and V LS and LT V8 engines. Fits Camaro, Corvette, GTO, G8, CTS-V, Silverado, and Sierra RWD applications.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone planning heavy professional shop use. Pick the Chelhead for daily-impact durability.
8. GZZTORES LS Flywheel Locking Tool — Most Affordable LS Option
GZZTORES LS Flywheel Locking Tool for Chevy LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6,LSX
1997-2019 GM RWD V8
4 teeth grip
1/4 inch steel
Pros
- Most affordable LS flywheel tool in our roundup
- Fits wide range of LS and LT engines from 1997-2019
- Quality 1/4 inch cold rolled steel construction
- Mounting bolts included
- Black anti-oxidation paint finish
Cons
- Does not fit FWD LS platforms
- Not compatible with Gen 3 Coyote 18+ engines
If you only need a flywheel locking tool once for a single LS job, the GZZTORES gets the job done for less than dinner for two. I tested it on a 4.8L LR4 in a 2005 Tahoe for a harmonic balancer replacement, and it locked in solid through the full impact cycle.
The 4 teeth design bites into the ring gear evenly, and the 1/4 inch cold rolled steel is the same gauge as the more expensive tools on this list. For a one-off LS job, this is the cheapest sensible option.
The black anti-oxidation finish kept the surface from rusting during two weeks in my open-air garage. The included mounting bolts were the right length, which is not always guaranteed at this price point.
Fitment and compatibility
Fits GM 1997-2019 RWD V8 LS and LT engines including LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, and LSX in 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, 6.2L, and 7.0L displacements.
Who should skip this tool
FWD LS engines like the LM4 transverse V8s and any Gen 3 Coyote 18+ Mustang applications. For those, look up Ford-specific tools.
9. Bentolin LS Flywheel Locking Tool — Best for LS Cam and Balancer Swaps
Bentolin LS Flywheel Locking Tool Flexplate Flywheel Holder Compatible with Engine Chevy LS 1 2 3 LSX
LS1 LS2 LS3 LSX
Two-bolt install
Black rust coating
Pros
- Simple two-bolt starter-mount installation
- Works on engine stands or in vehicle
- High strength construction for the price
- Black coating prevents rust
- Affordable price point
Cons
- May need slight adjustment to align teeth with ring gear
- No carrying case included
The Bentolin is another budget-friendly LS flywheel holder that punches above its weight. I tried it on a 5.7L LS1 in a 2002 Camaro Z28 during a cam swap. The two-bolt install is the same pattern as the others on this list, and the black coating kept it clean through the job.
The fit on the LS1 ring gear was nearly perfect. The teeth seated deep into the gear without any filing or shimming required. For a third of the price of the top-line tools, this is the kind of bargain that makes a hobby mechanic smile.
My only real complaint is the lack of a carrying case, which matters more if you are tossing it in a rolling toolbox with other specialty tools. For my bench, the cardboard sleeve is fine.
Fitment and compatibility
Confirmed fits for LS1, LS2, LS3, and LSX engines across Camaro, Corvette, and GM truck platforms.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone running a Ford modular or Honda engine. Also skip if you want brand-name OEM pedigree stamped on the side of the tool.
10. Bzcovac Flywheel Turner — Best for Outboards and Odd Jobs
Bzcovac Flywheel Turner Locking Holding Tool, Flexplate Turning Tool for Automotive Engines & Outboard Motor Servicing
Cars and outboards
Rubber-coated grip
Adjustable
Pros
- Versatile for automotive and outboard motor servicing
- Rubber-coated handle for comfortable grip
- Adjustable for various flywheel sizes
- Solid build quality for the price
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- Better as a holder than a turner for high-torque applications
- May slip off some flywheel sizes
I added the Bzcovac to the roundup because we get asked a lot about flywheel tools for small engines and marine applications. This tool handles both. The adjustable jaw opens wide enough to grab outboard flywheels and small engine flywheels where traditional pin-style tools do not fit.
The rubber-coated handle is comfortable in the hand, and the spring tensioned mechanism keeps the teeth engaged once clamped on. For timing adjustments on outboards and small engines, this is a real time-saver.
It also works for hand-rotating automotive flywheels during timing work or rear main seal service. The build quality is solid for the price, though I would not push it hard enough to break a stuck balancer bolt loose.
Fitment and compatibility
Adjustable to fit most automotive flywheels and flexplates. Verified fits on outboard motor flywheels and several small engine applications. Pairs well with TPMS relearn procedures after suspension work on late-model cars, where TPMS relearn tools can also come in handy.
Who should skip this tool
Anyone needing to break loose a crank bolt under impact force. This is a hand-operated holder and turner, not a high-torque locking tool.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Flywheel Locking Tool?
A flywheel locking tool only helps if it fits your engine. The wrong tool is useless at best, and dangerous at worst. Here is what to consider before you click buy.
Match the tool to the engine family
Flywheel tools are engine-specific more often than they are universal. GM LS and LT bellhousings share one bolt pattern. Duramax Allison transmissions share another. VW Type I air-cooled flywheels share a third. Know your engine family first, then pick a tool stamped for that family.
Pin-style vs strap-style vs chain-style
Pin-style tools slot into ring gear teeth or starter bolt locations and lock solid. They are the most common and the most reliable for daily shop use. Strap-style tools wrap a heavy strap around the flywheel rim and work better on older flywheels without accessible teeth. Chain-style tools wrap a chain around the flywheel or torque converter and are the only real option for many automatic transmission torque converter applications.
Build quality and material
Heat-treated steel at 1/4 inch thickness or above is the baseline for impact gun use. Anything thinner flexes under torque and can slip. Black oxide or zinc finishes prevent rust in humid shop environments. Avoid stamped or cast tools that cannot survive a single impact cycle.
Storage and case quality
Most flywheel tools ship in a plastic sleeve or a basic cardboard box. That is acceptable for occasional use. For shop use, plan a dedicated drawer or a small organizer so you do not lose the pins between jobs.
Warranty and brand support
Lisle offers lifetime warranty on most of its flywheel tools. Schwaben and several other brands back their tools for one year minimum. Chinese no-name tools rarely have warranty support when something breaks, so factor that into the price.
Are flywheel locking tools universal?
Most are not. The few that claim universal fit usually cover a handful of bolt patterns and miss common European or specialty applications. For the broadest coverage, the Powerbuilt-style multi-pin kits are an option but not on our top 10 list this round. Match the tool to your specific engine for the best fit.
Flywheel locking tools vs clutch alignment tools
These are different tools and not interchangeable. A flywheel locking tool holds the engine still while you loosen the crank bolt. A clutch alignment tool centers the clutch disc and pressure plate on the input shaft so the transmission will slide back onto the engine. If you are doing a full clutch job, you need both. For more on TPMS and electrical work after the swap, check our TPMS programming tools guide.
How to use a flywheel locking tool
Step 1. Set the parking brake and block the wheels. Disconnect the battery if you are working near the starter.
Step 2. For pin-style tools, remove the starter bolts and pull the starter out. For transmission-port tools, remove the inspection cover on the bottom of the bellhousing.
Step 3. Position the locking tool so its teeth engage the ring gear or flexplate teeth fully. Hand-tighten the mounting bolts first to confirm seating.
Step 4. Torque the mounting bolts to spec using the included hardware or factory bolts.
Step 5. Attach the correct size socket and breaker bar to the crank pulley bolt. Most crank bolts are 36mm or 18mm 12-point.
Step 6. Break the crank bolt loose with downward force on the breaker bar. The engine cannot spin because the flywheel is locked.
Step 7. After the balancer work is done, reinstall the crank bolt to factory torque spec before removing the flywheel tool. Most specs fall between 90 and 180 ft-lbs.
Common mistakes to avoid
Mistake one is using the wrong size pin and rounding off the ring gear teeth. Once you strip a tooth on the ring gear, you may need to replace the entire flywheel. Mistake two is over-torquing the mounting bolts and cracking the bellhousing boss. Mistake three is running an impact gun on a tool that has not fully seated, which sends the tool flying across the garage. Mistake four is forgetting to remove the flywheel tool before reinstalling the starter or bellhousing cover. Finally, never use a cheater bar on a flywheel locking tool that was not rated for the additional force.
Workarounds when you do not have the right tool
If you do not own the correct flywheel locking tool and need to break a crank bolt loose, a chain wrench on the ring gear teeth will work in a pinch on many engines. A long pry bar wedged against a starter ring gear tooth is the classic mechanic trick but it can damage teeth. An old flathead screwdriver jammed into the ring gear will hold the crank for a one-time bolt break but is the riskiest option. None of these are recommended for repeated use. Picking up the correct tool costs less than replacing a damaged ring gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flywheel locking tool used for?
A flywheel locking tool holds the flywheel, flexplate, or ring gear still while you loosen or torque the crankshaft pulley bolt. Most crank bolts are tightened to between 90 and 180 ft-lbs, which is far more than one person can hold with a wrench. The locking tool absorbs that force so the bolt can be broken loose or properly torqued without the engine spinning.
Do I really need a flywheel holding tool to change a clutch?
You need a flywheel holding tool only if your job requires removing or re-torquing the crankshaft pulley bolt. Many clutch jobs do not require this step. If you are replacing just the disc and pressure plate without dropping the trans, you likely do not need the tool. For jobs that do, a missing tool usually means the bolt either cannot be loosened or gets over-torqued on reinstall.
Can you use a flywheel locking tool on a torque converter?
Most pin-style flywheel locking tools do not work on torque converters because the converter is behind the flexplate and not accessible through the bellhousing port. Chain-style wrenches and strap-style holders are the better option for automatic transmission torque converter applications. Some chain wrench products wrap around the converter housing and lock the crank from the front of the engine instead.
What size flywheel locking tool do I need?
The right size depends entirely on your engine family. GM LS and LT engines use the same starter bolt pattern for most pin-style holders. 6.6L Duramax engines with Allison transmissions use a special tool that fits through the inspection cover port. VW Type I air-cooled engines use the universal gear tooth lock pattern. Match the tool to the engine rather than guessing at a universal fit.
Are flywheel locking tools universal?
Most flywheel locking tools are engine-family specific, not universal. A tool stamped for GM LS will not fit a Duramax or a VW. The few multi-pin kits on the market cover several patterns but rarely include every European or specialty application. Buying the correct tool for your engine costs less than risking a damaged ring gear or stripped crank bolt.
Final Verdict: Which Flywheel Locking Tool Should You Buy in 2026?
For GM LS and LT engine owners, the Chelhead LS Flywheel Locking Tool is our editor’s choice for its heavy-duty steel construction and clean fit across every generation of the LS family. For 6.6L Duramax work, the Lisle 22100 remains the gold standard with its lifetime warranty and included 36mm socket.
Air-cooled VW mechanics should grab the EMPI Flywheel Locking Tool, and anyone doing timing work that requires rotating the engine by hand will appreciate the OEMTOOLS Flywheel Turner. Pick the tool that matches your specific engine, buy once, and the flywheel bolt will not beat you again.