What kind of compressors do you guys use to remove the crank bolt. I have a 1998 camaro with the 3.8L

 

GM has specialized tools for this (see attached photos):

Document ID# 206839
1998 Chevrolet/Geo Camaro

Crankshaft Balancer Removal

Tools Required
J 37096 Flywheel Holding Tool
J 38197-A Crankshaft Balancer Puller
Use J 37096 to hold the flywheel.



Remove the crankshaft balancer bolt.



Use the J 38197-A to remove the crankshaft balancer.

Important

Do not separate the crankshaft pulley from the crankshaft balancer. Service the crankshaft pulley and the crankshaft balancer as an assembly.

Invert J 38197-2 so the leg of the tool is facing away from the crankshaft balancer.
Install the silver screws J 38197-4 to the crankshaft balancer.
Turn J 38197-1 to remove the crankshaft balancer from the crankshaft.
Remove J 38197-1, J 38197-2, and J 38197-4 from the crankshaft balancer.

 

I've used this simple little trick before to remove a stubborn crank bolt, and it works like a charm.
No need to get under the car, no need for fancy tools.
Looks like I'm not the only one who knows this trick:

 

I've already drained the oils and removed the water pump from the car

 

So what?

 

then hold the flywheel and use a breaker bar, socket. its not that hard.

 

It's not going to hurt the car trying to start it with no fluids in it?

 

No it won't hurt it at all. You're not trying to start the engine, just tap it over. Disconnect the ignition wire as a safeguard then.

 

Cool trick.

 

It works well, the starter motor exerts more torque than any hand or air tool you could use.
Make sure you get the socket seated square against the bolt, and if you can, turn the engine over clockwise by hand to put a pre-load on the breaker bar. This will help to prevent the socket from popping off the bolt head, and possibly rounding it out.