I'm in the middle of installing my opti and I can't get the crank pulley off. I have everything else off except that. Is there a special way or any tips on how to get it off? Thanks
PS - Be on the lookout cuz I'll post more questions as they come up. I already have some but I'll wait till I'm a little further.

 

You simply remove the three bolts that hold it to the hub. If it doesn't come off when you pull on it, its only the heavy rust holding it on. Some PB Blaster may help, or just get a puller and follow the photo on Shoebox's site:

http://shbox.com/1/pull_pulley.jpg

 

This is what I had to do.....

Get a very long flat head screwdriver..like the biggest kind that craftsman makes. Then get a hammer of some kind...If you have a rubber mallet then perfect!

Take the mallet and hit the hub around in a circle to try and break the rust up...then take the screwdriver and put it behind it, like in a prying position...then hit the screwdriver. Mess around with it for a bit, and you'll get the idea of what im talking about. Put the screwdriver BEHIND the hub and prop it on something metal and sturdy...then when you hit it with the mallet, it will pop the lil guy out.

Its not gonna come out all at once..you have to work your way around it...jes work your way in a complete circle...each time you go around, it should be an extra 1/2 to an inch further off...keep going and it'll come off eventually..

 

Just use a puller to take it off

 

Using anything that applies pressure to the outside edge of the pulley can damage the damper, by cracking the hard rubber ring that is inside, holding the inner and outer halves of the damper together.

 

I got a puller and it came off. So that's done with. My next question: I plan on removing the air pump as well. It's already off and I need to clarify on a couple things. 5/8 vaccum plug is what I know I need so far (which I can't find in the stores) but what do I do with the electronics as such with it? There was a couple wires running to it and I don't know how to properly get rid of them.

 

Just tape up the plug out of the way and make sure there is a good fuse for the pump in the fuse panel.