Cambelt and Crankshaft Bolt

[mk2_1.8]

Golf 1.8 1990 8v

I will be changing my Cambelt Next weekend. Had a quick look at it today and it seems the crank pulley needs to be removed to remove the bottom cover. I noticed the Crankshaft bolt looks like a "Star" type head. Can anyone tell me what size this is or is there a special tool? Also, is there an easy way to loosen it? From previous experience I know they can be a pain.

Any other tips on changing the cambelt appreciated.

p.s. the car has power steering.
Thanks

[ddubya]

i changed cambelt on my 1990 8valve with p/s,the bottom pulley came off just by undoing the 4 allen key bolts, did not have to undo the big star bolt. i had an 1988 8 valver before and had to undo a big nut ie 19mm,this would not undo even at work with a nut runner so had to take it to a vw specialist and they could not undo it either they had to cut it off with oxy- ascetaline. i got a second hand pulley from smashing vws in leeds, hope yours is the same as my current gti peice of piss    

[Bdub]

Just done mine on an 89 8v - you definately don't need to undo the crank bolt, just the 4 allen head bolts on the vibration damper pulley - you might need a puller to get it off though when the bolts are removed - it was bloody tight on the shaft.

Any more probs reply and I will advise.
Cheers