When searching the web for ideas on how to easily remove the cam pulley, I found all kinds of ideas from purchasing a special tool that is worth more than the rig, to using a chain, to fabricating something using a timing belt, a 4x4, and some bolts.

There is no question that the easiest way is to break the bolts loose while the belt is still in place. But, when you can't...

This is shown on a 3VZE, there is no reason why it shouldn't work on other engines. The presumption here is that if you are replacing the belt, then you have an old belt.

Wax Off

Take the old belt (not the new belt!) and anchor it around some fixed object that is strong enough to take the force. In this picture, that would be the pulley on the right. Then wrap it around the pulley to be removed (on the left) as seen in the picture.



Attach your breaker bar, and turn counter-clockwise. This will tighten the belt around the pulley to be removed. The harder you torque, the more you increase the force smashing the belt against the pulley (see below). Assuming all goes well, the first thing to break loose will be the bolt. Obviously, you don't want to run the belt around, through, or by anything that is likely to break.



Then reverse the belt and repeat to remove the second pulley (if you have one to remove).



Wax On

To tighten the bolts, reverse the process. Set up...



...and torque away (but only to the specified value :- ).