Different Alternator Pulley Sizes

[AlexB]

Changing the alternator on my '96 Chimaera and the new Alt has a smaller pulley than the original. I initially thought that I need to change the pulleys over, but now wonder if leaving the smaller pulley will cause problems (mainly because I can't see a way to get the pulleys off with my current tool set!). The alternator will spin faster, but I guess that as long as the tensioner can set the correct tension (not at the end of its travel) then it would be OK?

If I do need to switch the pulleys over then how do I get the pulleys off? Is there a special tool?

Thanks,
Alex

[BoostedChim]

Does yours old alternator have an allen head in the end of the spindle? I had to buy a swan neck 24mm spanner and then used an 8mm allen key to stop it turning.

[Bassfiend229hp]

I broke three 8mm Allen keys trying to undo mine - ended up buying a battery powered impact wrench and just used the drive belt to stop the pulley turning ... got it off no problem.

[AlexB]

Unfortunately the swan neck spanner I have is too shallow. I'll look for another or use this as an excuse to buy an impact driver.
Would using the smaller pulley be a problem?
Alex

[BoostedChim]

This is the one I used

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SILVERLINE-METRIC-DEEP-O...

[Sardonicus]

Just get a workshop to swap your pulleys over if someone walked in here for this job I wouldn't even charge em just remember it has no key-way location so its imperative the nut is tight as it relies on this clampdown to stop the pulley spinning on the shaft