In my attempt to remove the timing cover, I am having issues removing the crankshaft pulley. I am able to get the 15/16 socket on, but can't get the bolt off because the pulley keeps turning. Is there a secret or easy way to get the bolt off or stop the pulley from turning? Also, once the bolt is off, does the pulley easily come loose or will I need a pulley tool to get it off?
68 Firebird 400
Jay

Probably the best way to get that bolt off is with an impact wrench. You could probably rent an electric one for an equipment rental place. You will also need a nice HD torque wrench to set it back on (I believe it has to go to 180 ft-lbs)

Then you will need a harmonic balancer puller to get that off. The pulley itself bolts into the harmonic balancer and can come off without removing the large center balancer bolt.

There's actually a nice little trick that you can try. Take out one of the spark plugs ... makes no difference which one. Take length of nylon rope small enough that it fits easily through the spark plug hole and run a few feet of rope into the cylinder. (Leave a long tail that you can grab on to.) Rotate the motor in the same direction as loosening the bolt. Once that particular piston gets to TDC, the rope should hold the piston in place allowing you to turn the bolt out.

You will probably still need a balancer puller to get the balancer off.

You can also use a strap wrench on the balancer. Takes quite a bit of torque to break it loose.

While the engine was on the stand, we put the bolts in that hold on the flywheel. Then we took a pry bar and wedged it in between the bolts until the crank stopped.

If the engine is in the car, put it in gear, put on the emergency brake, chock the wheels, and use a 3 foot pipe on a stout socket wrench. Once the bolt is out, the balancer usually slides right off. And it's a right hand threaded bolt.

Works OK for a stick shift. Otherwise the motor just spins along with the torque converter.

If the balancer doesn't come off easily after bolt removal, Kragen/O'reillys has a removal/install tool they can rent you. Don't bang it back on with a hammer.