So I am having some strange issues with the crank bolt removal in my 95 3VZE. I am using a fan clutch removal tool very much like the tool that the dealer uses to hold the harmonic balancer in place and a 1/2 inch drive 3/4 6 point socket on a 24 braker bar to turn it.

So here is the strange part. The bolt turned probably 2 full rotations counter clockwise with only miner effort and then started to show more and more resistance. I have probably backed the bolt off 5 full rotations now and there is a lot of resistance. Like I am pulling with both hands and struggling. I can add a pipe for more leverage but don't want to snap the bolt in the crank. I do have impacts but my AC condenser is still in place..

And advice is welcome

 

Apply some WD-40 or other penetrating oil and turn it back in a turn, or two.

Then see what you've got.

Usually if you grease em up and go back and forth a little, they will loosen up.

 

I have been trying to work it back and forth and even added a little heat. She is coming but very slowly.

 

I've spent a solid 15 minutes of continuous back and forth turning just getting a spark plug out without ripping out the aluminium threads in the head. This sounds like a similar situation on a larger scale. Patience here is your friend. If you think all that back and forth turning is a pain, wait until you try drilling it out after it snaps off because you got impatient.

 

Very true. I am going to wait until the motor is on the stand and then try to attack it with care.

 

I hope you can secure the engine stand so it does not move!!

Even the ones that sit flat on the floor it is quite easy to drag them around trying to break things loose.

 

As everyone else mentioned take it slow and easy, you will get it.

2 of the threaded holes in my heads for the camshaft caps stripped out today, one in each head,:-( :-( Trying to find a heli-coil kit in this town is a painful process.

Cheers
Andy

 

I pulled the bottom end and plan on using the impact on a low setting to work it back and forth while using some heat. Definitely don't want to buy a new crank.