Well,
After a few ugly spots in my driveway, I see my front main seal is leaking.
Looks like that crank bolt is on with 300 ft/lbs of German torque and the only way to remove it is with a crank securing tool and huge breaker bar.

Does anyone know a place to rent one or have one I can borrow?

This seems to be the tool:
http://www.sirtools.com/bm30341.jpg

Anyone have any tips on doing this job?
Can it all be accessed just by removing the fan housing and drive belts?
Is the bolt a standard right hand thread?

Thanks,
Tony
2001 X5 4.4i
1974 2002tii
1973 3.0sci