I usually leave the nut in place when using a case splitter. That way, you have less chance of damaging the threads on the end of the crank. Also, it seems to work easier if you warm up the case with a heat gun. When it comes time to replace the main bearings and seals, the heat gun is the tool that helps make removing and installing the seals and bearings easier by expanding the size of the case halves for you. Warm the halves up until they are too hot to touch and then use a driver to tap out your parts. Remember to use gloves. Reverse the process for instalation.