On a 1992 245 w/ B230F Auto, I'm trying to replace all three front engine seals. Following all the common instructions, I came to the part that says "remove cam sprocket". While trying to loosen the bolt with a 14mm socket, my strap wrench could not hold tight enough around the sprocket to hold it still. So, I got clever and took the old timing belt I had just removed along with my wrench handle, and fashioned a strap wrench with teeth. I figured that would hold it still. It did hold the cam sprocket still enough, but the bolt was very stuck and stubborn. I turned so hard with the socket wrench, it broke my Crafstman 14mm socket. Ouch. So, I put oil around the bolt head and decided to let that soak in a few days.
When I came back to it, there seemed to be no improvement. Still very stuck and this time I was having trouble making the strap wrench with teeth hold on. So, I figures a way to jamb a screwdriver through the openings in the cam sprocket and against the camshaft cover. THIS would do it I thought. I turned so hard with the socket wrench that I broke the sprocket. Now I'm left with the stubby shards remainder of what used to be the cam sprocket, still firmly bolted to the front of the engine. With nothing left to grab onto, I'm thinking I have no other choice but to take the camshaft and cover off the engine.
Has anyone else had this much trouble? I am also worried that the intermediate sprocket may be just as stuck. Any suggestions would be appreciated.