What’s a race pulley?

Racing pulleys are engine accessories that can be smaller or larger than the standard component, allowing more power to be directed to the drive tires. They are usually placed on the crankshaft, water pump, and alternator, and made of thicker steel to prevent cracking. However, they should not be installed on street-driven vehicles. A racing […]

What’s a harmonic balancer pulley?

A harmonic balancer pulley is attached to the engine crankshaft to prevent vibrations that can damage other engine components. It helps balance forces during combustion and can act as a guide for the drive belt. If it wears or malfunctions, the belt can be thrown off and require replacement. A harmonic balancer pulley is an […]

What’s a belt idler pulley?

A belt idler pulley maintains proper tension on a fan belt, preventing excessive movement and belt pulling. It can be smooth or multi-ribbed and is commonly equipped with a zero-maintenance sealed bearing. A squeak or grinding sound may indicate a broken or weak spring or damaged bearing. A belt idler is a pulley that applies […]

What’s a Pulley Roller?

Pulley rollers are used in industrial machines like conveyor belts and treadmills. They must be durable, have low friction, and reduce noise levels. Treadmills use a pulley system to connect the electric motor to the roller. They are also used in paper cutter assemblies and household appliances. When replacing a pulley roller, the machine must […]

Best lightweight pulley: how to choose?

When choosing a lightweight pulley, consider factors such as price, speed, environment, and load. High speeds can cause damage to some materials, while extreme temperatures can damage others. Cast iron pulleys are brittle, while forged aluminum and carbon fiber are stronger but more expensive. In order to choose the best lightweight pulley for a given […]

What’s a Var. Speed Pulley?

A variable speed pulley system uses lubricated chains to adapt to different functions. It is weightless, reduces friction and force required, and has movable flanges to control speed. It is inexpensive and has an almost infinite speed range. A variable speed pulley allows you to use pulleys at different speeds. This means that the basic […]

Best plastic pulley selection?

When buying a plastic pulley, consider its size, function, type of plastic, weight limit, and whether it needs a mountable frame. Double pulleys can increase versatility, but choose based on application and rope/cable size. Look for grooved pulleys to keep the rope/cable in line. Light duty applications will benefit from a lightweight and inexpensive plastic […]

Types of pulley removal tools?

Different types of pulley removal tools are available, including jaw-type, pickle-fork-type, threaded rod or bolt pullers. Using the wrong tool can damage the pulley. Specific tools are designed for certain types and sizes of pulleys, and some are designed for specific manufacturers. Task-specific tools are also available for removing power steering and other pump pulleys. […]

What’s an AC idler pulley?

Idler pulleys are used in automotive applications to replace non-existent accessories or provide tension to belts. There are four types of pulleys: crankshaft, accessory, idler, and AC idler. AC idler pulleys can replace air conditioning compressors or tension belts on vehicles with air conditioning. The term “idler pulley” can refer to a couple of different […]

What’s a belt tensioner pulley?

A belt tensioner pulley maintains proper tension on a drive belt, saving wear on bearings and preventing slippage. It is commonly found on modern vehicles and can be adjusted to keep the belt tight as it stretches and ages. A damaged bearing requires the entire assembly to be replaced, and a squeaky belt may be […]

What’s a supercharger pulley?

A supercharger pulley is used to drive a supercharger through the engine’s accessory belt drive system. By altering the size of the pulley, the spin rate affects the amount of boost or pressure. The pulley is held in place by a clip and key and changing pulleys applies a different gear ratio. A supercharger pulley […]

What’s a timing belt pulley?

A timing belt controls engine valves by connecting the crankshaft to the camshaft. A serpentine belt drives engine accessories. An idler pulley provides motion to the belt but doesn’t drive an accessory. A timing belt is crucial and should be repaired by a professional mechanic. Vehicle owners can learn how to adjust tension on a […]

What’s a sync pulley?

Synchronous pulleys have teeth around their circumference to grip timing belts for precise force transfer at high speeds. They work with rubber belts and come in various shapes and sizes. They must be robust, withstand high temperatures and torque pressures, and adjust to different tractive loads. Synchronous pulley components are gear-like pulleys that provide the […]

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