How to Remove Power Steering Pump Pulley without Puller

The power steering system in your vehicle plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and effortless steering. At the heart of this system lies the power steering pump, responsible for generating the hydraulic pressure required to assist your steering efforts.

Over time, the pulley on the power steering pump may need to be replaced due to wear and tear or other maintenance needs.

While removing a power steering pump pulley typically requires a specialized tool called a puller, what happens if you don’t have one on hand?

An easy way to remove the power steering pulley without any tool is by removing the screws that reinforce the pulley. After extracting the screws, insert them in the holes found in the pulley. When you tighten the screws, you will notice that the screws will bottom out against the pulley and loosen it.

In this blog post, we will uncover alternative methods and techniques to remove a power steering pump pulley without a puller.

These DIY solutions can be a real lifesaver, especially when you find yourself in a pinch without access to specialized tools or an automotive repair shop.

So, whether you’re an avid DIYer or a casual enthusiast, read on to discover how you can confidently tackle this task and keep your power steering system running smoothly.

What is a Power Steering Pump Pulley?

A power steering pump pulley is a component of the power steering system in a vehicle. It is connected to the power steering pump, which is responsible for generating hydraulic pressure to assist with steering effort. The power steering pump pulley is mounted on the front of the power steering pump and is driven by the engine’s belt or serpentine belt.

The main function of the power steering pump pulley is to transfer power from the engine to the power steering pump.

As the engine rotates, the belt turns the pulley, which in turn drives the pump. The rotational motion of the pulley creates hydraulic pressure in the power steering system, which is then used to assist with turning the steering wheel.

The power steering pump pulley is typically made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum, designed to withstand the forces and stresses associated with transferring power.

It is important for the pulley to be properly aligned and in good condition to ensure efficient power transfer and prevent any issues like belt slippage or damage to the power steering pump.

In some cases, the power steering pump pulley may incorporate a clutch mechanism. This clutch allows the pulley to disengage from the pump when the power steering system is not in use, reducing the drag on the engine and improving fuel efficiency.

Can You Remove the Power Steering Pump Pulley Without a Puller?

Though it is technically possible, you shouldn’t try it in any circumstances whatsoever.

Consider how much force the engine is able to generate if it is only idling. Imagine how firmly the pulley must be fastened on the power steering pump in order to maintain alignment with the belt. The pully’s speed and vibrations would destroy the entire system if there was even a tiny bit of give.

Anything less than the specialized puller can damage both the pump and the pulley costing significantly more to repair than the tool itself. Here’s how to do it if you insist on doing it without the puller tool:

• After removing the pump from the car, tap the wedge connecting the pump and the pulley with a piece of steel pipe and a hammer.
• The blowtorch should be used to warm the pulley’s center before removing it. It can be moved by giving it a backwards strike with a hammer.

 How to Remove a Pulley with a Puller?

Before we begin, please note that the specific steps and tools required may vary depending on your vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for accurate instructions or seek professional assistance if you are uncertain.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools

To successfully remove the power steering pump pulley, you will need the following tools:

• Power steering pump pulley puller: A puller designed specifically for power steering pump pulleys is necessary for this task. Ensure that the puller is compatible with your vehicle’s pulley design.
• Wrench set: You will need a wrench set to loosen and remove the bolts securing the power steering pump.
• Socket set: A socket set will be required to detach the power steering pump pulley from the shaft.
• Safety goggles and gloves: Always prioritize your safety and wear protective goggles and gloves to prevent any potential injuries.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

Before starting the removal process, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off. Open the hood and locate the power steering pump, which is typically located on the front side of the engine.

Step 3: Loosen the Belt and Remove Hoses (if necessary)

To gain access to the power steering pump pulley, you might need to loosen the belt that drives it. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the proper belt tension adjustment procedure. Once the belt is loosened, set it aside.

Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove any hoses or connections attached to the power steering pump. Take note of their positions and connections to ensure proper reinstallation.

Step 4: Position the Puller

Identify the appropriate holes or threaded inserts on the power steering pump pulley that are designed to accommodate the puller. Insert the puller arms or hooks into these openings and ensure they are securely attached to the pulley.

Step 5: Apply Pressure and Remove the Pulley

Using the appropriate wrench or socket, turn the center bolt of the puller clockwise to apply pressure on the power steering pump pulley. Gradually increase the pressure until the pulley begins to loosen from the shaft. Continue turning until the pulley is completely free from the pump shaft.

Step 6: Inspect and Reassemble

Once the power steering pump pulley is removed, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, replace the pulley with a new one. Ensure that the pulley fits securely on the shaft before reassembling the power steering pump and connecting any hoses or belts that were previously removed.

Step 7: Test and Verify

After reassembly, start the vehicle and verify that the power steering system is functioning correctly. Turn the steering wheel in both directions to check for smooth and responsive operation. If you encounter any issues, recheck your work and consult a professional if needed.

 Attaching Power Steering Pump Pulley with a Puller

Reinstalling the pulley may be challenging, but if you follow these steps, you should be able to pull it off.

1. Use the right size of the threaded bolt that matches the steering pump hole.
2. Thread the steering pump whole for a few rounds and mount it with the thick disassembly bolt.
3. Place the pulley over the bolt and ensure it is facing the right direction.
4. Place the washers in the nut, starting from the bigger one, followed by the smaller one, then thread it forward.
5. Rotate the nut manually while using a wrench and ensure that you apply some pressure on the pulley to prevent it from moving. Note that at this point, you are doing the disassembly step in reverse, and you should hold down the bolt using the socket wrench.
6. Make sure you work patiently and check the gap to determine your progress. If you get to the end of the thread, remove the bolts and attach just one you used for disassembly.

Then, slide the washers back in, the nut, and move on with the wrench.

1. Be sure to check the alignment of the pulley and if it is correct, proceed to attach the serpentine belt.

How Do You Put a Pulley on A Power Steering Pump Without The Tool?

Tools are necessary when installing car parts. However, you should know how to install them without tools for emergencies. To put a pulley on a power steering pump, you need a socket, hammer, and penetrating oil.

It would be best to be careful while using this method because it could potentially damage your pulley. Here are the steps to install the pulley without tools.

1. Use the penetrating oil to lubricate the steering pump shaft and the pulley.
2. Ensure the shaft is held to the floor while the pulley stays on top of the shaft.
3. Gently hit the pulley with a hammer to make it squared and started.
4. After a couple of gentle hits with the hammer, the shaft should be able to slide into the pulley. Assist the shaft with a socket to minimize the pressure and prevent damage to the pulley.
5. Ensure that the pump stays pressed to the ground as you do the pounding. The principle of this step is that all the shock force will be dispersed into the ground while the casing is stiffening.

So, if you don’t want to use a hammer, you can use a screw and a few nuts as a substitute. You can put the nuts on the screws first and then place the washers before putting the pulley on the shafts. After that, insert it into the pump shaft and insert the nut, screws, and bolts.

 Final thoughts

Removing a power steering pump pulley without a puller may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and following the step-by-step guide provided above, it is entirely possible to accomplish the task.

Remember to exercise caution throughout the process and take your time to prevent any unnecessary damage. However, if you feel uncomfortable or encounter any difficulties, it is always recommended to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic.

With the pulley removed, you can now inspect or replace it as needed, allowing your power steering system to function optimally once again.

References:

• https://www.cardone.com/steering/power-steering-components/power-steering-pump-pulley/
• https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-power-steering-pump-pulley
• https://tengtoolsusa.com/blogs/news/what-are-pullers-used-for