Help Needed - Cambelt change

[Manxmann]

Hi Folks,

1st time owner here needing a quick bit of advice. I've just tried to change the cambelt on my mk3 8v GTi (1996 engine code 2E?) without succes

The problem I have is rather frustrating and annoyingly silly; I simply can't get the v-belt / aux drive belt pullys off the crank shaft splined end.

After nearly breaking my left hand removing the four through bolts I've tried gently tapping the two pullys to release any rust, nope. I've tried placing a spanner on the rear face of the larger inner pully, its shaft braced accross a solid engine mount and gently tapping the other end with a hammer, nope.

At that point I thought the better idea was admit defeat, put on at least the new v-belt (fingers crossed the p/steering will now work reliably in the rain now ) and ask the experts.

Could someone tell my the correct technique to get the stubbon blighter off.

Thanks in advance

Simon

[felixthegolf]

I think its all about the tools you have TBH - do you have a puller? or even a 2 or 3 leg puller if room permits?

[Manxmann]

Hi thanks for the reply. No I don't I suspected I was going to need something like that. Oh well off to the shops we go.

[Golf-Fiend]

I think its all about the tools you have TBH - do you have a puller? or even a 2 or 3 leg puller if room permits?

I'd be a bit wary of using a puller on the pulley. It's only soft metal and quite likely to bend this way. Can you soak it in penetrating oil (Plusgas) or similar for a few hours. Then tap away around the centre of the pulley - I use a 4" steel rod and a hammer. It should loosen up this way. It is corrosion holding it tight.

[Manxmann]

I'd be a bit wary of using a puller on the pulley. It's only soft metal and quite likely to bend this way. Can you soak it in penetrating oil (Plusgas) or similar for a few hours. Then tap away around the centre of the pulley - I use a 4" steel rod and a hammer. It should loosen up this way. It is corrosion holding it tight.

Hi, thanks for that. One thing I did do before putting everything back together was soak the lot with Holts rust release.

I'll give it another douse on Friday then give getting the pully off another go on Saturday. If that doesn't do the trick I might just send it to the local garage instead!