Harmonic balancer wear
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 37
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Harmonic balancer wear
I was under my car the other day and noticed some wear on the inside diameter of the balancer. It appears as though its rubbing on somthing ever so lightly. The seal behind the balancer looks a little worn as well. The balancer is 8". Should I be concerned about this? Does it need to be removed? Any suggestions on how to remove, rectify this issue and re-install. Thanks.
Senior Member since 1492
Joined: Aug 2000
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From: Just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean people aren't out to get me...
St. Jude Donor '09
Re: Harmonic balancer wear (LT1man)
I can't tell you if the seal or balancer needs replaced, but I will advise you to read this post about pulling the balancer. http://forums.corvetteforum.com/zerothread?id=177052
Minor detail not in the instructions: try wrencher's method of removing the balancer!
Minor detail not in the instructions: try wrencher's method of removing the balancer!
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
Re: Harmonic balancer wear (1970 Stingray)
Ok. I like wrechers method. Next question. Is there a tool specifically designed for pulling a balancer or should I just use a bearing/gear pulling device. Do I need to be careful when re-installing (I don't want to un-balance the engine). I didn't realize their was a seal back there. Is it pretty easy to replace once the balancer is out. Thanks
Senior Member since 1492
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 87,920
Likes: 156
From: Just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean people aren't out to get me...
St. Jude Donor '09
Re: Harmonic balancer wear (LT1man)
I bought/rented the remover from Auto Zone($15.99). If I want, I can return it and get my money back. This tool is specifically named a balancer remover. I had another gear puller when I removed a AC clutch on another vehicle. I suppose you could give it a try. For $15 bucks I got the appropriate tool.
There is another specific tool to install the Balancer. Check the archives, there was a recent post about problems with re-installing.
I just removed my balancer from an '89 350 and there was no seal behind the balancer.
There is another specific tool to install the Balancer. Check the archives, there was a recent post about problems with re-installing.
I just removed my balancer from an '89 350 and there was no seal behind the balancer.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 1,004
Likes: 16
From: Gainesville, Florida
Re: Harmonic balancer wear (LT1man)
Do I need to be careful when re-installing (I don't want to un-balance the engine)
The care needed when installing is usually to avoid ripping or distorting the seal (in the timing chain cover) or distorting the dampener or crank snout. Using a hammer and a piece of wood to install can damage the internal crank bearing journals.
On the wear issue, your dampener is fine unless its spewing oil out the seal. What usually happens is the seal gets hard through age and heat and as the dampener rotates a groove is gradually cut into the dampener flange. Even if that happens, you can buy a part for couple bucks that presses over the flange to restore a smooth sealing surface. I have one on mine and it works great.
Mark
