How to Remove a Power Steering Pulley

Easy step by step guide on how to remove a typical power steering pump pulley, though appearances may vary the process is the same for most vehicles.

Difficulty Scale: 4 of 10

Precautions: Never use a hammer to remove or install a power steering pump pulley

Before Beginning the Job

  • Place vehicle on level ground and adjust the gear selector to park (standard transmission in gear)
  • Allow engine to cool
  • Apply parking brake
  • Open hood
  • Disconnect battery
Step 1 - When replacing a power steering pump the main drive pulley MUST be removed and reinstalled onto the new replacement pump. This pulley is pressed onto the input shaft of the pump which then in turn drives the inner pump workings. This connection allows the engine to transfer its power through the serpentine belt which is fitted over the power steering pump pulley.

Power Steering Pulley Removal Tool
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Step 2 - The tool will take up about 12 inches in front of the pump so you must clear or remove the pump mounting bracket to allow room. Once this has been achieved and there is sufficient room in front of pump attach the removal tool by fitting the tool into position and using force to turn the press.

Removing Power Steering Pulley
Step 3 - When the tool starts working you will here a "pop" informing you the pulley has started moving. Continue this action until the pulley becomes free of the pump input shaft. Once repairs have been made and the pulley needs to be re-installed' it's best to first warm the pulley to about 120 degrees F.

Checking Pulley Temperature
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Step 4 - Make sure the shaft the pulley will be installed on is clean from rust and nicks, this will make the installation processes more difficult. If debris is present use a small piece of sandpaper to smooth out the surface before installation. DO NOT LUBRICATE THE SHAFT OR PULLEY. If grease or oil is present clean thoroughly before installation. Anything but a clean surface can cause the pulley to slip which would create a failure.

Clean Power Steering Pump Input Shaft
Step 5 - Once the desired temperature has been achieved gently align the pulley onto the shaft. Gently spinning the pulley will ensure a "square mount" which will start the correct alignment before the installing.

Installing Power Steering Pulley
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Step 6 - By turning the pulley you can take the wobble out which indicates the pulley is square. Next connect the installation tool to the front of the pump input shaft.

Power Steering Installation Tool
Step 7 - Once the installation is inserted tighten the collar against the pulley. Then continue tightening with wrenches and a ratchet.

Using Pulley Installation Tool
Step 8 - Continue to tighten the tool until the pulley is completely installed which means it needs to be flush with the pump input shaft.

Install Pulley Flush with Input Shaft
Helpful Information

Once the pulley is flush with the input shaft the installation is complete. Reassemble as needed and re-install the serpentine belt.

Tools Needed to Complete the Job

  • Wrench set
  • Socket set
  • Safety gloves
  • Power steering pulley removal and installation tool
Best Practices

  • Check the power steering fluid level when the job is complete
  • Inspect serpentine belt and replace as needed.
Article first published