How to Remove the Crankshaft Pulley: A Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated on June 22, 2023 by Mark S. Taylor

An integral part of an engine’s drive belt system is the crankshaft pulley. It might eventually need to be taken apart for a number of upkeep or repair jobs, like timing belt replacement, water pump access, or engine upgrades. We’ll outline a step-by-step procedure for successfully removing crankshaft pulley in this article. Follow these guidelines closely whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast to ensure a successful and secure removal operation.

The crankshaft pulley, commonly referred to as a harmonic balancer, is attached to the crankshaft and uses the drive belt to power various engine parts. The crankshaft pulley can be removed to gain access to other engine components and make repairs or replacements easier. When carrying out this task, it is essential to adhere to established protocols and safety precautions.

Materials and Tools Required

The following tools and materials should be gathered before you begin the removal process:

Tools needed include a socket set, a wrench set, a crankshaft pulley puller, a pry bar, safety glasses, gloves, and a torque wrench.

Safety Measures

Working on cars should never be done without first putting safety first. Before removing the crankshaft pulley, take the following safety measures:

• Check that the car is parked on a level surface, then apply the parking brake.

• Disconnect the battery’s negative connector to avoid unintended electrical contact.

• Protect yourself from debris and sharp edges by using safety goggles and gloves.

• Exercise caution when working close to hot engine parts and moving parts.

Step 1: Get the Car Ready

Take the following actions to start the removal process:

• Find the crankshaft pulley by opening the car’s hood.

• Become familiar with the location of the pulley and any neighboring parts.

• Remove any anything that can prevent access to the pulley.

Step 2: Locate the crankshaft pulley

Usually linked to the crankshaft, the crankshaft pulley is found at the front of the engine. It may be quickly identified thanks to its size and drive belt grooved surface.

Step 3: Remove the drive belt

The drive belt must be taken off in order to access the crankshaft pulley. This is how you do it:

1. To release tension from the belt, find the tensioner pulley and use a socket or wrench.

2. Release the tensioner slowly after removing the driving belt from the pulleys.

Step 4: Remove the Crankshaft Bolt

A substantial bolt holds the crankshaft pulley to the crankshaft. To loosen it, take these steps:

1. Find the crankshaft bolt at the pulley’s center.

2. Turn the bolt anticlockwise with a socket and breaker bar to remove it.

3. You might need to use a cheater bar for additional leverage if the bolt is too tight.

Step 5: Use a Pulley Puller

A specialized tool called a pulley puller is used to take out the crankshaft pulley. This is how to apply it:

1. Use the pulley puller as directed by the manufacturer and attach it to the pulley.

2. To exert pressure on the pulley, turn the pulley puller’s center screw in a clockwise direction.

3. Keep spinning the pulley until it becomes loose and separates from the crankshaft.

Step 6: Remove the crankshaft pulley

Carefully separate the pulley from the crankshaft once the pulley puller has removed it. During this phase, take care not to harm the nearby components.

Step 7: Examine and clean

After removing the crankshaft pulley, look for any evidence of wear, damage, or cracks. Degreaser and a lint-free cloth should be used to clean the pulley and its surroundings.

Step 8: Reinstall the crankshaft pulley

Observe these steps to reinstall the crankshaft pulley:

1. Align the pulley with the crankshaft’s keyway.

2. Ensure a snug fit by carefully sliding the pulley onto the crankshaft.

3. Utilizing a torque wrench, thread the crankshaft bolt and tighten it.

Step 9: Reattach the drive belt

It’s time to reattach the drive belt after the pulley has been installed. This is how:

1. Using the belt routing diagram, place the drive belt on the pulleys.

2. To release tension on the tensioner pulley, use a wrench or socket.

3. Make sure the drive belt fits properly before sliding it onto the pulleys.

Step 10: Test the Pulley

Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations coming from the crankshaft pulley before shutting the hood. You have successfully taken out and reinstalled the crankshaft pulley if everything seems normal.

summary

For a number of engine maintenance or repair procedures, it may be required to remove the crankshaft pulley. You can securely and successfully remove crankshaft pulley by following the detailed instructions provided in this article. Don’t forget to use the recommended tools, exercise proper safety precautions, and inspect the pulley before reinstalling. You can make sure that the engine in your automobile lasts a long time and runs at its best by giving it the right attention and care.

Read More: How to Clear the Service Suspension System: A Step-by-Step Guide

Crankshaft: What is it?

The internal combustion system of an engine is not complete without a crankshaft. It is a mechanical part that transforms the rotating action of the engine’s pistons into reciprocating motion. The proper operation and power output of an engine are crucially dependent on the crankshaft. An engine’s ability to transform the energy from fuel combustion into useable power to move the vehicle wouldn’t be possible without a crankshaft.

Crankshaft Pulley: What Is It?

A part attached to an engine’s crankshaft is referred to as a crankshaft pulley, or harmonic balancer. It is normally constructed of metal or a metal and rubber mix and linked to the front of the crankshaft. Numerous engine accessories are driven by the crankshaft pulley, which also aids in reducing vibrations caused by running the engine.

What Functions a Crankshaft Pulley Serves?

Transferring power from the engine’s crankshaft to various engine accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor is the main purpose of a crankshaft pulley. This is accomplished by using a drive belt or serpentine belt to connect the pulley to the appropriate accessories by wrapping it around the pulley. The pulley, which drives the belt and powers the associated accessories, spins as the crankshaft turns.

A crankshaft pulley also has a significant impact on minimizing engine vibrations. A rubber damper or harmonic balancer built into the pulley serves to absorb and dissipate vibrations brought on by the pistons’ reciprocating motion and the igniting of the fuel in the cylinders. The crankshaft pulley contributes to smoother engine operation and improved comfort by reducing these vibrations.

How Come a Crankshaft Pulley Would Be Removed?

Despite the fact that crankshaft pulleys are made to be strong and long-lasting, there are some situations where their removal is required. Here are a few typical causes for needing to take out a crankshaft pulley:

Replace Engine Accessories: In order to reach an engine accessory, such as the alternator or power steering pump, that is driven by the crankshaft pulley, you’ll probably need to remove the pulley.

Crankshaft Pulley Repair or Replacement: The rubber damper inside the crankshaft pulley may deteriorate or develop cracks over time. To preserve the engine’s smooth performance in such circumstances, it is required to remove the pulley and either repair or replace it.

Crankshaft Pulley Upgrade: Some auto enthusiasts choose to replace their stock crankshaft pulleys with aftermarket, high-performance models. The performance of the engine is enhanced by the fact that these aftermarket pulleys are frequently lighter and more balanced.

How Much Does a Crankshaft Pulley Replacement Cost?

The type and model of your car, the quality of the replacement pulley, and labor prices are just a few of the variables that might affect how much replacing a crankshaft pulley will cost. An average cost for the components and labor needed to replace a crankshaft pulley is between $150 and $500. It’s important to keep in mind that this is only a general estimate and that costs may differ greatly based on your unique situation and location.

Visit a reputed car repair shop or speak with a dependable mechanic to obtain an accurate estimate for your vehicle. They are able to evaluate your particular circumstances and give you a precise cost breakdown for the replacement of your crankshaft pulley.

Is the Thread on a Crankshaft Pulley Bolt Reverse?

Yes, the bolt that holds the crankshaft pulley to the crankshaft typically has a reverse thread. This indicates that to loosen the bolt, you must turn it in the opposite direction of clockwise rotation. Utilizing a reverse thread bolt will stop the bolt from coming undone as a result of the pulley’s rotating stresses during engine running. Reversing the thread helps guarantee that the bolt is kept tight.

When handling a reverse thread bolt on a crankshaft pulley, it’s crucial to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions and utilize the proper tools. It can be more difficult to remove or replace a bolt if the threads have been damaged or stripped due to improper tool use or incorrect bolt rotation.