harmonic balancer puller?

Question

Does anyone know how to make a simple harmonic balancer remover to remove a small block chev balancer

Answer 1

I own a shop, and have a degree in Industrial Engineering. What I think is this; If you, or anyone for that matter had the answer to this question, then a patent would be in order. You could sell thousands of them, if it were simple, cheap to make, and did the job without causing the user harm, and/or damaging the crankshaft bolt threads. Since the balancer is mounted inside rubber, you have to use the inside portion of the balancer as a means of removing it, or you will damage the balancer. Some parts stores such as Auto Zone will rent or loan you a puller if you put down a deposit. In the long run; if you don't damage the puller, and return it when you say you will, it doesn't cost you anything to borrow it. The puller most people use is one that is also used for removing steering wheels, and they don't come made any more simple than that. If you use the tool properly, and use an impact wrench to turn the center bolt, it will remove the balancer within a few seconds. I just can't for the life of me see how one could be made more simple than that.
Part 2:
When you reinstall the balancer DO NOT beat it back on with a hammer because you will be moving the crankshaft, and beating out the main bearings. These bearing control the end play in the crank, and if you damage these bearings, you risk having an engine with a short life span. Use a long bolt to pull it back on with, and when the bolt bottoms out in the crank, add washers to the bolt until you can get the retaining bolt started. Just don't beat on the balancer. Before installation; use 400 grit sandpaper, and shine up the crank, and the balancer. File out any burrs in the key way, and spray them both down good with WD-40 before you try to put it back on. You will be way ahead of the game to do the job right the first time.
Glad to help out, Good Luck!!!

Answer 2

Harmonic Balancer Puller

Answer 3

Northern tool or Harbor freight the tool prevents dammage to the pulley and is worth 45 dollars not to cobble up an alternative that rips the metal so the correct puller won't work.

Answer 4

The ONLY thing I can add to above..borrow it from Auto Zone or similar, is to use a balance INSTALLER and not the center bolt to reinstall it..or you run a HIGH risk of damage to the center threads of the crank.