I have an adjustable pulley on my evaporative cooler motor. It seems to be frozen. Usually I can run the cooler with the adjustment lock set- screw out and it loosens right up. Not this time, after about eight hours. I tried a generous application of 'break free' oil several times, on the shaft and in the pulley 'V' hoping it will soak down into the threads. And last time I adjusted it, a few months ago, I made sure I oil-lubricated the threads on the pulley very well.
Any suggestions on loosening this? It's too hot to mess with removing the motor or pulley - 111 today - as long as the cooler still runs. Better the belt stays loose. I'm reluctant to tap the flange CCW with a hammer because the motor is only six months in service and I'm afraid I'll damage the bearing. But I may have no choice.
Suggestions or lubricating it for keeps once I get it loose or replace it? Maybe a slathering of axle grease instead of oil?
TIA