Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

[canadian]

Anybody have instructions on how to replace the harmonic balancer. I understand that you'll need the puller tool to get it off and install the new one. Can this be done as a one man operation or is it better to have a helper?

Anybody have any pictures?

 

[Paul Huizenga]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

Can't vouch for how easy/hard it is with the engine in the truck, but it's a piece of cake with the right tools and the engine on a stand...

http://techweasel.blogsome.com/2008/05/26/may-15-2001/

 

[Tooky]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

I did it myself. I rented the puller at Advance Auto. The bolts were a bit bent from whoever used it last. Anyway I put up a picture for you:

They say to put a little grease on the crank Snout when you reinstall it. One other tip - record the gap between the balancer and your timing cover, so when you reinstall the new one, you know how far to go!! The thing is so tight to install that you won't just be able to "feel" when it's "bottomed out", or at least I couldn't. My disassembly notes saved my butt there.

 

[canadian]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

I believe that will be my next project that will no doubt turn into something very ugly.

 

[Black Knight]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

Been searching and this seems like the best thread to add to.

When installing the harmonic balancer are you supposed to put some RVT on the key way to keep it from leaking?

Do you do this before or after it's installed?

One of my guides says a small drop before install, the other doesn't say anything.

TIA

 

[Don W.]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

I disagree slightly with Tooky. You will feel it bottom out. The install tool just won't go any more. If you don't go 'till it stops then you risk the belt being out of alignment. If you rent the 'correct" tool it will do both the removal and install. Mine's been off a few times. Never used any RTV, no leak. I would definitely lube the puller/installer threads AND lube the crank snout (for install). That sucker is on there snug.

 

[5678TA]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

i have to agree with don. they are just like a V8's. it will and is supposed to bottom out. i used to just lube up the crank snout and threads then tighten it down with the bolt to torque spec.

 

[Black Knight]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

So no on the RVT?

Only reason I ask is the factory one I took off had it and when I pulled the balancer off another motor with no RVT there was a pool of oil inside where the middle of the balancer.

 

[Don W.]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

I would avoid any RTV. When installed all the way the balancer is up against the timing sproket. No real way for oil to get past. Centrifugal force and such. Just forget it.

 

[Black Knight]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

Cool, thank you sir!

 

[Syclone22]

Re: Harmonic balancer replacement (need how to)

So no on the RVT?

Only reason I ask is the factory one I took off had it and when I pulled the balancer off another motor with no RVT there was a pool of oil inside where the middle of the balancer.

Correct Black Knight i use RTV to seal oil leak
in the middle of damper great stuff !!!

P.S when installing new damper just coat the crank snout with seizing lube
it makes installing a snap and also saves your tools !!