[200q20v] Help: crank seal removal without proper tool

[C1J1Miller at aol.com]

In a message dated 2/10/01 3:06:13 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
calliope3 at starpower.net writes:

> I discovered this morning that the tool kit Blau rented to me for timing
>  belt replacement included the cam seal removal tool instead of the
>  forward crank shaft seal tool, although the new  seal itself is correct.
>  For about three hours I've been gingerly drilling, dremeling, and
>  pulling with an awl bent into a hook to no avail. Anyone have any
>  secrets to getting it out? I'm being very careful about not doing any
>  damage to the block surface where the seal sits.
>  
>  Please e-mail directly, I am not subscribed at home
>  
>  Thanks
>  
>  Tom F.
>  200q20V Avant in a million pieces on the garage floor.
>  Feel free to phone if you have the perfect solution:: 202 258 0221
>  

the bent seal puller works, but is not the most elegant.
Many local auto parts stores lend or rent pullers; some people also have used 
a sheet metal screw after drilling a small pilot hole.
The seal uses a flexible inner portion along the crank, held to the crank 
with a spring.   can you pry it out?  The seal puller I use screws through 
the metal portion, with the threads getting purchase in the brass portion of 
the seal; then forces it out by pushing against the crank shaft.

I did a timing belt on a car with a major gouge from an improper seal removal 
tool  The gouge was in the block surface; the last mechanic used gasket maker 
to seal that portion of the seal (fill the gouge in the block).  Their 
repair, while not elegant, worked fine, as the seal wasn't leaking...
Chris