I did mine about six months ago and don't recall having this problem. It may
be that you need to remove the aluminum plate that runs the width of the
engine compartment to gain access. You definitely DO NOT have to remove the
pulley or belts. There is no special tool other than a torque wrench for
reassembly.

Are you trying to pull the bolts from the engine, or the bolts that hold the
rubber mounts to the upper engine support?

BTW there are arrows on the engine carrier indicating the front of the car.
Mine was installed backwards when I pulled it. Not sure what difference it made