Harmonic Balancer OE or Aftermarket ?

[96RedRunner]

Getting ready for TB job, haven't looked close at one on engine has 212k mi runs true. Plan on reusing what's on it,
thought crossed my mind what would I get if I would ever need another. OE is $443.00, A/M premium is $265.00
What would you do? Ay.

 

[thegipper]

You most likely will never need to replace the HB so I wouldn't worry about it, they rarely ever go bad.

But if I did have to replace it, I would probably just try to find a used OEM one or maybe go with one of the aftermarket aluminum ones which are in the $200 range.

 

[gamefreakgc]

Agreed on not replacing the HB. However, you might want to look into replacing the woodruff key based on the condition when you get the HB off. If it's marred or chipped it needs to be replaced.

EDIT: I forgot some words lol. Don't replace the HB.

 

[denverunner]

you don't need to replace the harmonic balancer when changing your timing belt.

If for some reason you damaged yours and need to replace it, I would go to a junkyard and snag one before buying new OEM or aftermarket. A new OEM HB is pricey.

 

[96RedRunner]

Understood it's not part of TB job more a what if chit goes south taking it off, what condition it's in.
H/B on 96Red never a problem but I was the only one that touched it in 375k mi.
This job on 01 owned 12k mi TB has been done before I got it,
still in new to me category on some things where others have done work.
Woodruff key always one of those things to pay attention to coming off going on.
This one area I won't go Pull a Part for, we'll see in coming week OE or AM.

 

[Novashards]

Quick question.

I am planning a timing belt/water pump & seals job. I noticed that is missing a chunk of the inner belt retaining wall on the engine side. It doesn't seem to be chewing belts and I'm not sure how long it's been that way.

Should I replace the harmonic balancer as well?

 

[gamefreakgc]

Quick question.

I am planning a timing belt/water pump & seals job. I noticed that is missing a chunk of the inner belt retaining wall on the engine side. It doesn't seem to be chewing belts and I'm not sure how long it's been that way.

Should I replace the harmonic balancer as well?

If the belts are good with no slipping or damage you can reuse it. Our engines are internally balanced, so it really is just a crank pulley and not a harmonic balancer. Though it does make me wonder how a piece got chipped off? Maybe a casting flaw or something.