I replaced the timing belt and water pump on the '97 Protégé (1.5L with chain drive between the cams). I read in a posting someplace of difficulties breaking the crankshaft bolt loose. I had similar problems but want to share my solution with anyone else who might need to do this.
After locking up the crankshaft (4th gear, flywheel ring gear...however), fit a breaker bar with the 21mm socket to the bolt such that the arm of the bar is somewhat horizontal. This should be positioned such that an upward force is needed to loosen the bolt. The arm will point towards the front of the car.
Position a scissors jack under the end of the breaker bar and extend it upward, exerting rotational force on the bolt. This will break the bolt free. Be careful of the jack or the arm of the bar slipping.
Best,
Ken