Head gasket change in action…no threads on timing chain?!? Help

There are tricks with setting, and releasing the timing chain tensioner as well; I think fairly well covered, around 29:00 in this GM video:

Very thorough video btw. There is a continuity error, some repetition of content, starts around 33:00.

 

A Prius engine doesn't really need a wrench to turn the crankshaft if there's no compression (as when the spark plugs are out, or the whole head is off). Turning it with a hand on the crank pulley is about as much effort as the handwheel on an old sewing machine.

 

I'm a little loss (having never done this myself lol). I believe you've got the timing chain cover off, accordingly the (beltless) pulley wheel on the end of the crankshaft off, and the bolt going through that pulley wheel off as well?



Engine section of Repair Manual attached:

 

The pulley will easily slide back on (make sure the key's in the keyway too) for temporary sewing-machine-twirling duty.

 

Make sure you put the engine at TDC on the compression stroke.
And lock down the intake cam shaft.

It doesn't looke like the oil was changed very often. And cheap oil was used.
Maybe even non synthetic oil.