16-03-15, 11:30 PM
You did fit them the right way round, I trust? You wouldn't be the first to put the opening cable on the closing side of the pulley, put it that way. 
Also, is the valve moving freely before you fit the pulley? You should be able to flick it open/closed with thumb and forefinger ... sort of flip-flopping easily between open and closed. If you have to apply any kind of effort, the valve spindle might be slightly bent causing it to bind. It can be straightened.
I feel your frustration but persevere and once it's sorted, you'll be able to stay on top of the routine maintenance very easily.
Also, is the valve moving freely before you fit the pulley? You should be able to flick it open/closed with thumb and forefinger ... sort of flip-flopping easily between open and closed. If you have to apply any kind of effort, the valve spindle might be slightly bent causing it to bind. It can be straightened.
I feel your frustration but persevere and once it's sorted, you'll be able to stay on top of the routine maintenance very easily.