Wobbly harmonic balancer

[Chrisman889]

Lately I've noticed a definite wobble in the harmonic balancer. New balancer or bent or warped fly wheel?

 

[Chuzz]

Probably the rubber in it has slipped. I'd remove it and inspect it. Probably time for a new one.

 

[VanGo]

I had a nice long response and it crashed.
I agree that it's probably a balancer. I would replace the front seal too and check for a groove worn into the crankshaft where the seal contacts it. They make a thin sleeve to repair it if it needs it.
The 'flywheel' on an automatic is pretty wimpy compared to a manual trans. You might check it if your balancer is okay. It might explain your starter noise.

 

[Chrisman889]

I actually got that starter issue all worked out finally. If I do need to replace the balancer I should be able to get it with out removing the engine right?

Also I did get that tranny mount changed and it helped quite a bit. It still vibrates and shakes a lot when I accelerate.

 

[VanGo]

There is room. Worse case, you may have to remove the radiator. You may want to borrow a puller from a parts store.

Re: the shaking on acceleration. If the trans mount helped, you may want to recheck the engine mounts. Check your u-joints too.

 

[Chrisman889]

Checked the drive shaft u-joints, all good. I guess I'm not sure how to check the engine mounts. Should have seen the tranny mount it looked like somebody had squeezed a bunch of that black silicone gasket seal in it, I guess to replace the rubber that had torn out of it.

 

[VanGo]

If you have a helper, an easy way to check mounts while the engine is running is to put your foot on the brake, put the trans in drive and give it some gas. A broken mount will let the engine rise. Putting it in reverse will check the opposite side. Make sure your help isn't standing in front and you are clear in case you slip.
Personally, considering the trans mount was bad and the truck was off-roaded a lot, I would replace them anyway. They may not be broken but they may be soft.

 

[Chuzz]

I agree with VanGo. Just go ahead and replace both motor mounts. It's not that expensive nor difficult. A good jack with a piece of wood under the oil pan should help do the trick.