Power Steering Reservoir: Bottom Torx Bolt Won't Clear the Pulley...

[CSalp]

I have experienced a slight power steering fluid leak, and after coming across this post:
https://www.turbodieselregister.com/threads/power-steering-o-ring-repair-documented.175288/
I proceeded...(after examining more closely, I am confident that is the same spot where my leak is occurring) but I was not able to complete the job.

I was able to remove the top bolt fairly easily, and got the bottom bolt completely loose, but the head of the bolt would NOT clear the pulley in front of it...just barely, by about 3/16 of an inch (or about 1/3 the diameter of the head). I just couldn't figure out a way to get the bolt (which was completely loose) to clear the pulley (photo attached, below). Is there anything additional that needs to be done, to be able to remove the bottom torx fastener/bolt holding the reservoir in place?

Many thanks for any insights/help!

 

[ranger 393]

Wow, when I changed mine it came throught the front of the pulley through one of the big holes.
I pulled pump and Res. as one unit.

 

[CBari]

I don't remember but I think I had same problem as you. I couldn't ever get anything on the bottom bolt because the pulley would get in my way. I gave up but said I was going to try again the fall. I will be watching this post for insight. When I asked a couple said I would have to pull the pulley off first. I never tried the holes in the pulley but looking at yours it wouldn't help. One question did you remove the belt and spin the pulley around and see if anywhere else in its path gave room to remove it. I know it shouldn't matter because it should be centered but I can't imagine that you should have to pull a pulley either to get a PS pump off.

 

[AEdelheit]

I pulled the pump and reservoir out as an assembly, pulled the pulley off and then did the reservoir.

 

[ranger 393]

Sorry, I did not realize at first you were trying to remove just the reservoir, yes you will have to pull the pump and reservoir as one unit then remove the pulley to get the reservoir off.

 

[John2713]

Most auto parts stores loan a pulley remover installer kit for free. Its no big deal too do. Try and U tube the repair.

 

[Ozymandias]

I would cut the bolt head and use a new screw from the rear side- if possible.
do not like to pull and repress pulley for just a screw.

 

[dsldude]

You cannot just pull the resevoir on that style. The whole unit needs to come out to service it.

 

[sag2]

There is not enough room to pull the pulley with the pump in the truck. You have to pull the pump.