Let's assume that force is only applied to the damper (it's not a "balancer") hub (which is the tool's purpose), not the inertia ring.
Let's also assume that the crankshaft is in the engine.
What do you think makes that nice, positive re-assuring "sound" when the damper bottoms out?
That's right - it's the main thrust bearing.
Does it always fail?
No, but it's also never a good idea.
To reduce the amount of force needed, chill the crank nose with a rag or sponge soaked with alcohol and left in the freezer, and heat the damper with boiling water (not a torch).
