TOP 10 FLYWHEEL LOCKS REVIEWS

Top Flywheel Locks and Holding Tools for Mechanics

Find the perfect flywheel lock or holding tool for your engine repair, timing, and maintenance needs. Tools for VW, Duramax, LS engines, and more.

A flywheel lock, also known as a flywheel holding tool or flexplate lock, is an essential tool for any serious mechanic or DIY enthusiast working on engine maintenance and repair. These specialized tools are designed to securely hold the engine's flywheel or flexplate in place, preventing rotation while you perform critical tasks like tightening harmonic balancer bolts, removing clutch assemblies, or setting engine timing.

Using the correct flywheel locking tool ensures precision and safety, especially when dealing with high torque specifications. Whether you are working on a classic VW, a modern Duramax diesel, or an LS engine swap, having the right tool for the job makes all the difference. Explore our curated selection of the best flywheel locks available, compatible with a wide range of vehicle makes and engine types.

01
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 for 6 or 12 Volt VW applications
  • Compatible with 180MM and 200MM flywheels
  • Essential tool for clutch and engine maintenance on VW/Dune Buggy
  • Durable construction for reliable flywheel holding
02
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)
  • Specifically designed for 6.6L Duramax diesel engines
  • Includes a necessary 36mm 3/4'' socket for crankshaft bolt removal
  • Locks the engine for high-torque maintenance tasks
  • Heavy-duty construction for professional use
03
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 (1,895 reviews)
  • Essential tool for Chevy LS 1, 2, 3, and LSX engines
  • Used for securing the flexplate during torque converter installation
  • Made from durable steel with a black oxide finish
  • Simplifies flywheel bolt removal and installation
04
2801 Flywheel Holder Flex Plate Lock Tool & 7676 Oil Seal Repair Kit with Balance Shaft & Oil Pump Alignment Tool Set, Compatible with BMW N20 N26 Engines

2801 Flywheel Holder Flex Plate Lock Tool & 7676 Oil Seal Repair Kit with Balance Shaft & Oil Pump Alignment Tool Set, Compatible with BMW N20 N26 ...

2801

4.7 (94 reviews)
  • Comprehensive kit for BMW N20 and N26 engine service
  • Includes flywheel holder/flex plate lock tool
  • Features oil seal repair and balance shaft alignment tools
  • Ensures precise engine timing during maintenance
05
Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock

Lisle 22110 Flywheel Lock

Lisle

4.8 (308 reviews)
  • Simple, effective design for general automotive use
  • Locks the flywheel ring gear teeth securely
  • Ideal for removing or installing clutch and pressure plate bolts
  • High rating and large number of reviews indicate reliability
06
ECSiNG Car Flywheel Timing Tool Carbon Steel Flywheel Locking Tool Compatible with 1.6 1.9D Clutch Engine Damper Compatible with Peugeot Compatible with Citroen Automobile

ECSiNG Car Flywheel Timing Tool Carbon Steel Flywheel Locking Tool Compatible with 1.6 1.9D Clutch Engine Damper Compatible with Peugeot Compatible...

ECSiNG

4.5 (25 reviews)
  • Specialized timing tool for 1.6 and 1.9D diesel engines
  • Compatible with Peugeot and Citroen vehicle models
  • Made from robust carbon steel for longevity
  • Crucial for accurate clutch and engine damper work
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-purpose tool: turns and locks the flywheel/flexplate
  • Suitable for both automotive engines and outboard motors
  • Allows for easy positioning and timing adjustments
  • High-strength material designed for demanding applications
08
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 engine timing and holding
  • Universal fit for various automotive applications
  • Prevents crankshaft rotation during critical repairs
  • Compact and easy to use in tight engine bays
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)
  • Specific compatibility with popular Chevy LS engines (LS1, LS2, LS3, LS6, LSX)
  • Locks the flywheel/flexplate for high-torque bolt removal
  • Affordable and essential for LS engine builders
  • Simplifies harmonic balancer and rear main seal replacement
10
3mirrors LS Engine Flywheel Holding Locking Tool Kit Compatible with 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 Chevy LSX Camaro, Corvette, Trans am, GTO, G8, CTS V, GM Trucks

3mirrors LS Engine Flywheel Holding Locking Tool Kit Compatible with 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 LS1 LS2 LS3 LS6 Chevy LSX Camaro, Corvette, Trans am, GTO,...

3mirrors

4.4 (178 reviews)
  • Broad compatibility across GM V8 engines (4.8L to 6.2L)
  • Fits numerous GM vehicles including Camaro, Corvette, and Trucks
  • Prevents engine rotation during flywheel and clutch work
  • High-quality tool designed for repeated use in engine swaps and repairs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a flywheel lock used for?

A flywheel lock (or flexplate holder) is used to prevent the engine's crankshaft from rotating. This is necessary when applying high torque to components like the harmonic balancer bolt, flywheel bolts, clutch pressure plate bolts, or when setting precise engine timing.

Can I use a screwdriver to lock the flywheel instead?

While some amateur mechanics may attempt to jam a screwdriver or pry bar into the ring gear teeth, this is strongly discouraged. It can damage the teeth, bend the screwdriver, or cause serious injury if the makeshift lock slips under high torque. A dedicated flywheel lock tool is the safest and most effective option.

Is a flywheel lock the same as a timing pin?

No. A timing pin is a precision tool used to align the crankshaft to a specific top dead center (TDC) position for timing belt or chain replacement. A flywheel lock is a holding tool used to prevent rotation during high-torque tightening or loosening procedures.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are performing a clutch replacement, an engine swap, or critical timing work, a dedicated flywheel locking tool is indispensable for safety and precision. Review our top selections, ensuring you choose the correct tool compatible with your specific engine model, and take the guesswork out of high-torque engine repair. Click through to secure the right flywheel lock for your next project today!