I started a timing belt project all has gone well until I went to change the seals. The first two smaller seals went in ok, but the larger crank seal didn't go in so easy. The FAQ files sugest the removal of what they call the front bearing mounting plate. I removed five or six bolts and two nuts + the two from the bottom of the oil pan, and it wiggles but will not come off. There are two what I cant tell are either guide pins, bolts from inside the oil pan or snaped bolts that seem to be holding it in place. Does anyone know how to remove this plate? I have lightly tapped it with a rubber mallet.

What you are seeing is likely the dowel pins. Since bolts are too sloppy to position the cover, there are two ground pins pressed into the block. The timing cover slides (somewhat tightly) over these pins. The snug fit keeps the alignment where it should be. The tight fit can cause a problem when 16 years of crud accumulates at the end of the dowels...keeping the cover from sliding off. Pop the cover back into place and clean off the end of the dowels. I prefer scotchbrite, but sandpaper or steel wool will work just fine.

thanks I didn't want to wack it too hard,I'll give them a little more cleaning

Free at last!!!!!!!!!!!

Did part of the pan gasket come out with the housing?
thats what happened here.
check:
http://www.brickboard.com/RWD/index.htm?id=1230834

Bill