What is the crankshaft harmonic balancer?
Excessive vibrations can greatly affect the lifespan of your car engines crankshaft, resulting in expensive repairs becoming necessary. The crankshaft harmonic balancer, also known as the crank pulley damper (or harmonic damper) connects to the crankshaft and absorbs many of the vibrations produced by the engine, reducing the strain on the crankshaft. This allows for improved crankshaft health as well as a smoother driving experience with fewer bumps, noise and vibrations.
How does the crankshaft work?
The crankshaft harmonic balancer can become damaged over time. This is often due to high amounts of heat, loose bolts, or deterioration of the rubber that surrounds the crankshaft harmonic balancer.
In many types of car, the crankshaft harmonic balancer will serve as a pulley for the drive belt, which powers the alternator, water pump and other crankshaft-controlled components. In the event that the crankshaft harmonic balancer becomes damaged, the functionality of these parts can be affected.
Symptoms of a faulty crankshaft harmonic balancer:
Vibration from the engine – Problems with the crankshaft harmonic balancer can cause an increase in engine vibration. These vibrations can damage the seals of the crankshaft over time, meaning it is best to get the harmonic balancer repaired as soon as possible.
It is worth noting that there are many reasons your car can vibrate. For diagnostics, see Car Vibration Inspection & Repair in Hamilton
Loud noises – You may notice that your engine is producing loud humming or shaking noises. These noises will increase in volume when you accelerate. This can be a sign that there is a problem with the crankshaft harmonic balancer.
Oil leaks – Over time, the crankshaft seals can become damaged from absorbing all of your engine’s vibrations. This can lead to oil leaking from these seals. If you notice that your car’s oil warning light is on, or there are puddles of oil forming under your car, we recommend that you get the car checked sooner rather than later. Oil leaks can cause serious engine damage if left unfixed.
Misfiring engine – A faulty harmonic balancer can cause misfires in the engine, which can lead to rough idling or hesitation during acceleration.
Overheating engine – A faulty harmonic balancer can also cause the engine to overheat. This is because the balancer helps to drive the water pump, and a faulty balancer can cause reduced circulation of coolant in the engine.
Causes of a faulty crankshaft harmonic balancer
- General wear and tear: Eventually, the rubber materials inside the harmonic balancer can degrade or crack, causing the balancer to lose its effectiveness.
- Excessive loads: The harmonic balancer is designed to absorb vibrations and shock from the engine. If the engine is subjected to excessive force or heavy loads, it can cause the balancer to become damaged or fail prematurely.
- Oil contamination: If the harmonic balancer is exposed to oil or other contaminants, it can cause the rubber material inside to degrade or swell. This can lead to increased engine vibrations and other symptoms.
Engine Crankshaft Harmonic Balancer Repairs & Replacement in Hamilton
Is your car in need of a new crankshaft harmonic balancer or crankshaft harmonic balancer diagnostics? If so, we can help! It’s important to have your car checked by a qualified mechanic if you experience any symptoms of a faulty harmonic balancer. Ignoring the problem can cause further damage to the engine and affect its overall performance.
At Grimmer Motors, our skilled and talented mechanics can provide you with a new crankshaft harmonic balancer. We can then replace your old crankshaft balancer, allowing for improved engine health and fewer vibrations while driving.
For crankshaft harmonic balancer repairs, diagnostics and replacement in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!