I just removed that rear crank seal last week, but the engine was on the
floor.  Getting that pulley bolt off required a lot of leverage with a
cheater bar and a 1/2" breaker bar. I hade to bounce on the bar with my
160lbs body to get it loosened.  I actually put protective goggles on as
I was afraid my breaker bar was going to break. I cannot possibly
imagine doing that with the motor in the van...but it's obviously
possible with the right tools.  As to getting the pulley off, mine came
off fairly easily with a big screwdriver and prying on sides of the
pulley, alternating from side to side.

BTW, my pulley had a small grove worn in it from the seal...so a new
seal alone may not solve the leak.

Pascal
'84 Westy 

-----Original Message-----
"The "bible" shows the seal and lists a tool #(whatever) along with the
torque formula. Since I dont have the VW specific tool and probably
never will I was wondering if anyone here on the list has done this seal
replacement and can offer some insight?" 

"Would it be possible to just put a couple of bolts through the pulley
to "hold it" while the nut is removed? Has anyone done this seal
replacement that can offer some "tips"?"

Thanks,
A J