I guess this applies to any car in general, but in this example it's a 1999 Mustang GT(sorry Buick guys). Anyways, I'm in the process of replacing my harmonic balancer. Engine is in car. I'm trying to remove my crank key, but it's turning into a disaster of a job. About 3/4 is exposed and the rest goes thru a square cutout in the crank trigger that is behind the timing cover. I managed to chisel the key, it went straight up, now it's stuck. The metal crank trigger ring that part of it goes thru is prohibiting it from going up any more. I'd really like to do this without removing the timing cover. Any ideas? I've tried everything so far. Would heating the key up cherry red and trying to pull towards me harm anything? I don't want to do any internal damage from the heat. But it's all metal, right? I pulled the front timing cover oil seal that the balancer slides thru. Just want a few more opinions that heat won't harm the cam. The crank trigger ring is metal. I'd appreciate all input/ideas. Thanks. Btw the mustang forum guys didn't reply. Posers...