Removing flywheel bolts

[John Middlesworth <jape@email.unc.edu>]

I'm trying to get the flywheel off the back of my 18V engine and I haven't
been able to move any of the bolts that hold it to the crank.  They're so
short that I don't own a socket that can get a good grip on them.  Has
this been anyone else's experience?  Any secrets to getting them loose? 
Why do they seem to be soooo torqued down?  (Yes, I have bent back the
lock plates.)

John Middlesworth
1972 MGB