Help removing 351 Cleveland timing chain and sprocket

[767Jockey]

It's my first time inside a Cleveland, and I'm trying to remove the chain and sprocket. The center bolt is out of the top sprocket, and the fuel pump eccentric is removed. The top sprocket appears stuck on the front of the cam. I can't get behind it to try to gently pry it off the cam. The sprocket has three slots in it, but the back of the slots are beveled right into the center hub, so even if I buy a three legged puller the legs will have nothing to grab on to the back of the sprocket - they'll just slide off. What's the best way to get this thing off?

[rdorman]

Smack it inward on the teeth with a mallet. Just a tap should do. I am assuming the chain is off. If not, pull the lower sprocket out some and it may help with the top.

[Clois Harlan]

Rick is right. In the past I have taken two small screw drivers and gently pryed out by twisting the screwdrivers. Usually, a light smack with a rubber mallet and or a couple screwdrivers free's it right off.

Clois

[Jac Mac]

Two levers 3/8" dia with an 'L' shaped hook of about 3/4" allow you to reach behind gear/sprocket to lever it forward, a bit on each gear until the cam gear drops off.
Jac Mac

[767Jockey]

Finally got it - thanks guys. Just took a lot of tapping and "persuading".