I have a 1995 Nissan Maxima that has already gone through three harmonic balancers.?

Question

Last night the third one blew apart! What's going on?

Answer 1

Now, this is a problem you don't see very often. Three H-balancers on the same motor is incredible. H-balancers are bolted on and have a key that holds them in position. It is very likely that the keyway is wormed out, too large and the key slipped out. IF this is the case, a machine shop may be able to fix the end of the crank shaft and replace the balancer, but most won't even try, too much trouble and too much risk. The answer to this particular problem requires a new crank be installed. All you have to do to check is get in there and find the key way. The keys usually used on crank shafts are either a half-moon shape or a rectangluar shape.

IF the keyway is in good shape, I would check the threads on the bolt way for the main bolt. Are the threads ok? Have them chased and retapped if necessary. Install the new balancer with a new, thread-locked bolt and washer. MAKE SURE that the bolt is torqued to factory specs before you ever turn the motor over.

Beyond that, look for broken motor mounts. Vibration and due to broken mounts can cause the same problem, but is less known.

The only other possibility that comes to mind at the moment is a problem with the crankshaft, but you wouldn't necessarily be able to check that while the motor is in the car, with the exception of pulling the oil pan or the cylinder head(s).

I hope this helps and it's nothing major.

Answer 2

That almost never happens. The 1995 Maxima runs and runs. I cannot see to the proper tightening of the two belts A/C Alternator And the powersteering belt. You did not state where your from how much road salt is used or how many miles the car has gone. And how long between balancers were they new or wrecking yard parts?? Something like wreck damage or broken motor mount causing the motor to move and hit the inner fender. No strange noise from the alternator PS or A/C compressor?.

Answer 3

Over tighten belts?