Pulley Removal Tips for March Performance Systems

March Performance billet aluminum pulleys are precision CNC machined to extremely tight tolerances. That precision is what makes them perform and look so good — but it also means you need to use the right techniques when removing them. Forcing a pulley off incorrectly can damage the pulley, the shaft, or both. Here's how to do it right.

Before You Start

A few things to gather before beginning pulley removal:

• The correct puller for your application — never use a jaw puller on the face of a billet pulley
• A quality breaker bar or impact wrench for center bolt removal
• Thread-locking compound and fresh hardware for reassembly
• Clean shop rags to protect the pulley face during the process

Power Steering Pump Pulleys

Power steering pump pulleys are press-fit onto the pump shaft and require a dedicated puller and installer tool. Do not attempt to pry or hammer these off — you will damage the pulley and potentially the pump shaft.

1. Use a PS pump pulley puller that engages the back of the pulley hub, not the face
2. Thread the puller in slowly and evenly — don't rush it
3. Once the pulley breaks free, support it so it doesn't drop and nick the machined face
4. On reinstall, use a proper PS pulley installer to press it back on flush — do not hammer

Crank Pulleys and Damper Hubs

The crankshaft pulley on most March Performance systems bolts directly to the damper or crank hub. Removal is straightforward but requires holding the crank from turning:

1. Use a strap wrench or flywheel holder to prevent crank rotation — never use a screwdriver in the ring gear teeth
2. Remove the center bolt using the correct socket. Most SBC and BBC applications use a 15/16" or 1-1/8" bolt
3. If the pulley is tight to the hub, use a proper harmonic balancer puller that threads into the damper hub — do not pry against the pulley face or the timing cover
4. Inspect the woodruff key and keyway for damage before reinstalling

Water Pump Pulleys

Water pump pulleys on March Performance systems are typically bolted on with three or four bolts:

1. Remove all mounting bolts and keep them organized
2. Wiggle the pulley gently by hand — it should come off without force if properly unbolted
3. If it's stuck due to corrosion or silicone, use a rubber mallet to tap gently from behind — never pry from the front face
4. Clean the mounting face and threads before reinstalling

Alternator and Accessory Pulleys

Most March Performance alternator pulleys are threaded onto the alternator shaft with a standard or reverse-thread nut:

• Check your specific alternator for thread direction before applying force
• Use the correct socket size and hold the alternator shaft with an appropriate tool
• On Denso-style alternators with splined shafts, a special holding tool is required

Protecting the Finish

March Performance's clear powder coat is durable and guaranteed not to chip or yellow — but it can be scratched by metal tools. Always wrap tool contact points with rags or rubber, and never clamp directly onto a machined pulley face with metal-jawed tools.

If you need replacement pulleys or have questions about your specific application, browse the SBC pulleys, BBC pulleys, or Ford pulleys sections at marchperformance.com, or call 1.888.729.9070.