Stuck 740 crank pulley - How to remove safely? Topic is solved

Post by **scot850** » 11 Aug 2026, 15:15

I have a new Volvo friend locally who is trying to remove his crankpulley to do the timing belt. He got the bolt out no problem, but the harmonic balancer/crank pulley does not want to come off. It has been about 20 years since I last did this but I don't recall having issues removing it. I had to remove the belt pulley and that was a real swine to get off I recall.

Has anyone done this and had this issue and have a simple way to remove it?

I can't use a typical 3 legged puller as you can't pull on the outside as you can damage the rubber middle section, and you can't safely use heat for the same reason.

Thanks,

Neil.

Post by **volvolugnut** » 11 Aug 2026, 16:17

Haynes manual for 240 engines (740 Volvos are very similar) says to use only a puller that threads in to the PULLEY HUB. Not ouside edge as you said will damage the rubber.
volvolugnut

Post by **scot850** » 11 Aug 2026, 23:59

Volvo dealer service manager (former master tech who worked on these), said careful use of a couple of pry bars and not pressing on the outer steel rim works. Sure enough about 2 hours later a get a text saying it has come off.

I did look to see if I could find one of those tools, but due to time constraints I di not have time to identify one that would work with a Volvo and could be bought and collected today.

Great news, but oner has asked me still to come over and give the car a once over.

Many thanks for your input as always!

Neil.