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TOP 10 BEST FLYWHEEL LOCKS

The Best Flywheel Locks and Locking Tools for Automotive Repair

Find the best flywheel locking tools for your engine, including LS, Duramax, and universal applications. Essential tools for secure engine maintenance and repair.

Working on an engine, whether you're replacing a clutch, torquing harmonic balancer bolts, or performing timing adjustments, often requires the flywheel or flexplate to be held securely in place. This is where a specialized flywheel locking tool becomes indispensable. Trying to secure the flywheel without the correct tool can be frustrating, inefficient, and potentially dangerous.

Flywheel locks are designed to engage the teeth of the flywheel or flexplate, preventing rotation so you can apply the necessary torque to other engine components. Given the variety of engines—from high-performance LS motors to heavy-duty Duramax diesels and classic VWs—selecting the right tool tailored to your specific application is crucial for a successful job. We’ve compiled a list of the top flywheel locking tools available to help you secure your engine with confidence and precision.

01
Chelhead LS Flywheel Locking Tool Steel Black Oxide Flexplate Locking Holder Tool Compatible with Engine Chevy LS 1 2 3 LSX

Chelhead LS Flywheel Locking Tool Steel Black Oxide Flexplate Locking Holder Tool Compatible with Engine Chevy LS 1 2 3 LSX

Chelhead

4.7 (1,726 reviews)
  • Specifically designed for Chevy LS 1, 2, 3, and LSX engines.
  • Constructed from durable steel with a black oxide finish for corrosion resistance.
  • Locks the flexplate/flywheel for easy harmonic balancer bolt removal/installation.
  • Simple bolt-on design for quick installation through the starter opening.

$14.71

02
Universal Flywheel Lock Tool, Universal Flywheel Holder ‎For 6 or 12 Volt VW (180 & 200MM Flywheels) Compatible with Dune Buggy

Universal Flywheel Lock Tool, Universal Flywheel Holder ‎For 6 or 12 Volt VW (180 & 200MM Flywheels) Compatible with Dune Buggy

Universal

4.8 (41 reviews)
  • Universal design compatible with 6 or 12 Volt VW engines.
  • Fits both 180MM and 200MM flywheels, ideal for classic VW and Dune Buggy applications.
  • Essential tool for clutch replacement and flywheel gland nut torquing.
  • Durable construction ensures reliable holding power during high-torque operations.

$11.20

03
E-cowlboy Flywheel Locking Tool with 36mm 3/4’’ Socket for 6.6L Duramax

E-cowlboy Flywheel Locking Tool with 36mm 3/4’’ Socket for 6.6L Duramax

E-cowlboy

4.7 (251 reviews)
  • Designed specifically for 6.6L Duramax diesel engines (LML, LBZ, LLY, etc.).
  • Includes a necessary 36mm 3/4'' socket for crankshaft bolt access.
  • Locks the flywheel to facilitate removal and installation of the harmonic balancer.
  • High-strength steel construction built to handle high diesel engine torque.

$17.99

04
Lisle 22100 Flywheel Locking Tool for 6.6L Duramax

Lisle 22100 Flywheel Locking Tool for 6.6L Duramax

Lisle

4.8 (3,526 reviews)
  • Premium quality tool from Lisle, trusted brand in automotive specialty tools.
  • Dedicated fit for 6.6L Duramax engines for precise locking.
  • Allows for safe and easy removal of the crankshaft pulley bolt.
  • Durable, professional-grade construction for repeated shop use.

$35.08

05
Flywheel Lock Engine Flywheel Holder Precision Timing Automotive Compatible

Flywheel Lock Engine Flywheel Holder Precision Timing Automotive Compatible

Flywheel

5.0 (1 reviews)
  • Designed for precision timing and engine maintenance tasks.
  • Universal or specific fit (check compatibility details before purchase).
  • Aids in holding the engine at Top Dead Center (TDC) for timing belt/chain work.
  • Compact and easy to store in any mechanic's toolbox.

$11.15

06
Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock

Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock

Lisle

4.8 (308 reviews)
  • Highly rated and popular flywheel lock from Lisle.
  • Simple, effective design for locking the flywheel via the starter opening.
  • Ideal for various applications that require high torque on the crank bolt.
  • Robust metal construction ensures longevity and resistance to bending.

$13.80

07
Flywheel Turner Locking Holding Tool, Flexplate Turning Tool for Automotive Engines & Outboard Motor Servicing

Flywheel Turner Locking Holding Tool, Flexplate Turning Tool for Automotive Engines & Outboard Motor Servicing

Flywheel

4.6 (42 reviews)
  • Dual function: acts as a locking tool and a turning tool for engine rotation.
  • Versatile use for automotive engines and outboard motor servicing.
  • Engages the flexplate/flywheel teeth for precise manual engine positioning.
  • Ergonomic handle design for easier turning and manipulation.

$15.80

08
OEMTOOLS 25556 Flywheel Turner, Flexplate Tool, Flywheel Wrench, Sure Grip Flywheel Turning Tool, Flywheels Specialty Tools, Engine Rotating Tool

OEMTOOLS 25556 Flywheel Turner, Flexplate Tool, Flywheel Wrench, Sure Grip Flywheel Turning Tool, Flywheels Specialty Tools, Engine Rotating Tool

OEMTOOLS

4.7 (209 reviews)
  • High-quality flywheel turner designed for professional mechanics.
  • Sure Grip design ensures firm engagement with the flywheel teeth.
  • Makes manual engine rotation simple for valve adjustments and timing checks.
  • Heavy-duty construction capable of withstanding significant rotational force.

$33.76

09
LS Flywheel Locking Tool Compatible with Chevy LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6,LSX Engines Flywheel Holding Locking Tool Kit

LS Flywheel Locking Tool Compatible with Chevy LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6,LSX Engines Flywheel Holding Locking Tool Kit

LS

4.6 (47 reviews)
  • Affordable and effective locking tool for the entire LS engine family.
  • Installs easily into the starter motor mounting location.
  • Essential for high-torque tasks like crank bolt removal and flywheel installation.
  • Made from robust steel to prevent flexing under load.

$9.98

10
LS Flywheel Locking Tool, Compatible with Chevy LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LSX Engine Flex Plate Locking Holding Tool Kit, for 4.8, 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, 6.2, 7.0 Automotive Engine (Black Steel)

LS Flywheel Locking Tool, Compatible with Chevy LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 LSX Engine Flex Plate Locking Holding Tool Kit, for 4.8, 5.3, 5.7, 6.0, 6.2, 7.0 Au...

LS

4.4 (27 reviews)
  • Broad compatibility with popular LS engine displacements (4.8L to 7.0L).
  • Securely locks the flex plate for engine assembly and disassembly.
  • Black steel construction offers good strength and visible placement.
  • A must-have tool for any mechanic frequently working on GM LS platforms.

$9.99

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a flywheel lock used for?

A flywheel lock (or flexplate lock) is a specialty tool used to prevent the engine's crankshaft from rotating. This allows mechanics to safely apply high torque to components like the harmonic balancer bolt, clutch assembly bolts, or transmission bolts without the engine turning over.

Can I use a screwdriver or pry bar instead of a flywheel lock?

It is strongly discouraged. Using a screwdriver or pry bar risks damaging the delicate teeth of the flywheel or flexplate, which can lead to expensive repairs. Dedicated locking tools are designed to distribute the load safely and effectively.

Do I need a different lock for a manual transmission vs. an automatic?

Yes. Manual transmissions use a heavy flywheel, while automatics use a lighter flexplate. While some tools may be interchangeable, many specialty tools are designed specifically for the ring gear size and bolt pattern of either the flywheel or the flexplate.

Final Thoughts

A high-quality flywheel lock is a non-negotiable tool for serious engine work. Whether you are tackling a simple timing job or a major engine rebuild on an LS, Duramax, or classic VW, the right locking tool ensures safety, precision, and efficiency. Review our top picks and select the model that perfectly matches your engine application to guarantee a successful repair.