Mercruiser 3.0 Harmonic Balancer Install

[branden0502]

i rented the tools from autozone to remove my balancer, it came off nice and easy, but there are no threads in the cam shaft to use the install tool. What is the best way to install it? ive seen alot of threads on the subject but no real answer. I can't imagine heating it is a good idea with the rubber piece, and beating it on doesn't sound like the best idea.

thanks for the input

 

[stonyloam]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Harmonic Balancer Install

I found this: http://www.crankshaftcoalition.com/wiki/Harmonic_balancer/damper_-_How_to_remove_and_install Looks like drill and tap or drive it on. They talk about heating the balancer in hot water and cooling the crank with ice. Good luck

 

[Don S]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Harmonic Balancer Install

All the manuals go into details of how to install the balancer with the special tool, but they all require a threaded hole in the crankshaft. Problem is, the 2.5 and 3.0L engines don't have threaded holes in the crankshaft.
But they do give an idea of how to install them. Here is from manual 13.

I bolded the important part.

NOTE:
If a suitable torsional damper installer installation
tool is not available, use a block of wood as a driver.
Be very careful not to cause pulley or weight to
shift on their rubber mounts.

That's, you drive it on with a wooden block.

 

[smassey22180]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Harmonic Balancer Install

I removed mine last month to change the timing cover. It went on easier than it came off. Just put a little oil on the shaft and make sure the key is in the right place. I did sand off a bit of rust on the leading edge of the crank which helped it get lined up with the key. 4lb sledge and block of pressure treated wood worked well for me.

When removing I did notice that there was some rtv sealing the outer end of the key. When re installing I put new rtv in just to be safe as oil could leak out from there. Just a dab once it is pressed back on.

 

[branden0502]

Re: Mercruiser 3.0 Harmonic Balancer Install

awesome. I ordered a manual but it hasn't come in yet. thanks again for the help