manually turn crankshaft
 

with engine out and plugs and belts removed how much effort should it take to rotate a 454 crankshaft clockwise ? Not a new or rebuilt engine.

should roll over fairly easy with a 1/2 inch breaker bar and socket..............

Your still compressing a bunch of valve springs also

I rotate my 525EFI with a 3/4" socket on a 3/4" drive ratchet. Piece of cake.

Thanks, I got it turning, didn't want to break off the bolt head.

I can tell you that you will never get one to turn over by hand with the rod sticking in the side of the cylinder. Been there, done that! :D

No doubt. Once you hear it going with a stocker just leave it pinned til chit happens. When you come to a abrupt stop and look under engine and see oil and antifreeze/water - not a good sign but on the flip side time for new build and more power. Lol... usually results in a nasty hang over also.

I had one I could litterally stick my entire hand through the oil pan.