How to Replace a Pulley on an Evaporative Cooler

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket wrench set

  • Allen wrench

  • Small pry bar

Over time, the motor pulley on an evaporative cooler can begin to wear out and warp. When this happens, it can make the pulley squeak and create more problems for the unit. It's not difficult to replace the pulley; it can be done in about an hour. The pulley is attached to the motor shaft with a set screw and can be swapped out using a few common tools.

Advertisement

Step 1

Turn the breaker switch for the unit off at the breaker box before you begin. Close the shut-off valve to stop the water supply to the cooler.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Remove the cooler's back panel by lifting it up and away from the unit. Loosen the bolts that secure the motor to the motor mount with a socket wrench. Do not remove the bolts; just loosen them enough for the motor to slide forward on the mount.

Step 3

Take the belt off the motor pulley. Loosen the set screw on the pulley shaft between the pulley and the motor with an Allen wrench. Remove the pulley from the shaft and set it out of the way.

Step 4

Attach the new pulley to the motor shaft, tightening the set screw with the Allen wrench and place the belt around the new pulley. Apply tension to the belt by pulling back on the motor with a small pry bar. Tighten the bolts that secure the motor to the motor mount with the socket wrench.

Step 5

Attach the cooler's back panel. Turn the water back on at the shut off valve. Flip the breaker switch back on.

Warning

To avoid electric shock, never attempt to replace the pulley on an evaporative cooler while the breaker switch for the unit is still on.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references