Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Crankshaft Harmonic Balancer

Common features include engine vibration, misaligned alignment marks, and a separate harmonic balancer.

The crankshaft harmonic balancer is a device connected to the front of the engine's crankshaft, usually built into the crankshaft pulley. Its purpose is to absorb and reduce engine harmonics as the crankshaft rotates, since harmonics at high engine speeds can cause accelerated wear and damage to components. They are usually made of rubber and metal, which easily absorb any harmonics that might otherwise damage the engine. Usually, a problem with the harmonic balancer causes several symptoms that can alert the driver to a potential problem that needs to be addressed.

1. Engine vibration

One of the first signs of a potential harmonic balancer problem is motor vibration. The harmonic balancer is specially designed to absorb engine harmonics as the engine speed increases. If the harmonic balancer becomes too old or fails and can no longer absorb harmonics properly, the motor will shake excessively. Shaking will become even more pronounced, and therefore dangerous for the engine at high speeds.

2. Offset alignment marks

Another indication of a potential problem with the harmonic balancer is misalignment of the setting marks. Harmonic balancers, used in many vehicles, consist of two metal parts with a rubber layer between them to dampen vibrations. If the plies come apart or slip off, the timing marks, which are normally stamped on the front of the pulley, may shift and thus move the timing marks. This will make it difficult, if not impossible, to correctly start the engine using the timing indicator.

3. Separate harmonic balancer

Another more serious symptom of a harmonic balancer problem is a detached harmonic balancer. If the rubber layer in the harmonic balancer dries out or wears out, it can lead to complete failure of the entire harmonic balancer due to its separation. If the harmonic balancer separates, the engine belts usually come off and the car is left without engine assemblies.

The harmonic balancer is an engine component present in virtually all rotating internal combustion engines and plays an important role in protecting the engine from dangerous harmonics and potential damage. For this reason, if you suspect that your harmonic balancer may have a problem, have the car checked by a professional specialist, for example, one of AvtoTachki. They will be able to determine if the car needs replacement of the crankshaft harmonic balancer.