On Sat, 05 Jun 2004 21:41:21 GMT, "Caroline"
<caroline10027remove@earthlink.net> wrote:

>I accidentally chipped 0.3 ounce of steel off the edge of my 91 Civic's
>crankshaft pulley today. The chunk that came off is part of the edge that helps
>retain the power steering belt. I did this trying to get the crankshaft pulley
>bolt off (as I want to go after some seals that will require this soon) but with
>a bit too much jury-rigging, obviously. After putting everything back together,
>I took the car for a short drive. It sounds fine. Still, I am somewhat concerned
>about the crankshaft system's proper balance. Anyone else driving around with a
>chipped pulley? Other thoughts on the risk to the engine I might be taking?

I don't think any weight imbalance will bother you but I'd be more
concerned that any ragged edge could chew up the belt - keep your eye on
it. The other thing is that whatever you were doing around the rim of the
pulley, any force there, could have damaged the rubber damping material
which is bonded between the pulley rim and hub. It's there to damp out
vibrations which can damage crankshaft bearings.

>A new pulley will cost me $100. I figure I can get a second-hand one at a few
>salvage yards for less, if need be.

I'm not sure about relative sizes but, rather than getting the exact same
pulley, it'd be worth looking for a replacement with a 50mm hex socket in
it... *if* there's one available in the right diameter. Then you'll be
able to use a pulley holder tool in future.

Rgds, George Macdonald

"Just because they're paranoid doesn't mean you're not psychotic" - Who, me??