hi all -- finally have the engine unstuck and moving -- I have the rocker arm assembly rebuilt; valve job pending, but probably this weekend! Almost there! Anyway, three quick ones, hope not too dumb:

1. how hard should it be to turn the engine by hand? -- I used a bar on the flywheel; it took some serious effort, but it worked; I now have the flywheel off and am cleaning everything; there is no way I can turn it from the side with the balancer, and I mean No way. that normal?

2. now that the engine turns, how long will it stay unstuck? do I need to move fast to finish the job so it does not lock up again? keep the cylinders lubricated?

3. I want to trash the transmission for a 3 or 4 speed on-the-floor -- any recommendations? -- Hershey is next week - will be able to buy what I need --

thanks all -- really appreciate you guys -- chris