It is more common than you think Matt. Basically the rubber interface breaks down and loses it's grip making the fan belts rotate at a different speed ratio to the crankshaft. The problem is that the timing information becomes incorrect and the engine is impossible to re-time when it is necessary. We have several documented instances of this and not confined to the B230F. It is a Vibration Damper (not Harmonic balancer) fault. Harmonic Balancers are only fitted to twin-cam engines like the B204 and B234 in the 700/900 range. Yes get it changed asap, so that you can know how well the engine is timed, before it falls to bits with possible expensive outcomes.
Yes - I agree with Peter M. This happened on one of our 240's. Eventually the Vibration Damper slid backwards into the timing belt cover. My mechanic ended up replacing that cover, as well as the timing belt itself (it was damaged also), and cleaning out all the rubber and plastic junk scattered in the area.
Better to take care of it sooner than I did!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ To send email, remove all < > and [ ] and the junk ~ between: [brucepick1] < a~t >
[comcast.net]
MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here.
All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.