Kingdom Of Diesel Engines

Vibration Dampers
By: B.Sc. Mech. Eng. Aly A.Fatah

VIBRATION DAMPER INSPECTION

Before we elaborate how to inspect vibration damper, let take a
quick idea about various types of vibration dampers and what
vibration damper does.

Torsional vibration is a twisting vibration caused by the firing

of each piston. The force of the piston causes the crank to
deflect ever so slightly in the direction of the force, and when
that force goes away the crank ever-so-slightly springs back.
At certain frequencies the crank can resonate, making the
vibration much worse. This is where the harmonic damper
comes into play.
Some product found in the aftermarket does not include the
rubber part of the damper and as a result almost certainly
increases crank bearing wear and could lead to early failure
of the crankshaft or crankshaft bearings.

1. Standard Type:
This type of vibration dampers is one piece and mainly used
in small engines, all what you need to do is to have a look to
ensure there is no damages or cracks.
2. Harmonic Vibration Dampers:
Inspection:
 Make sure the rubber is in good condition and not
damaged.
  On the harmonic vibration damper and body there
are two marks, make sure they are aligned
together and not apart.

3. Viscos Type:
Viscous type damper is filled with viscous fluid, this
fluid is damping the vibration.

Inspection:
You need to check the damper for any leakage, if you
find any, you must replace damper.
Do not try to refill the damper.