Gates look at reducing the risk of premature drive system failure.
Torsional Vibration Dampers (TVDs) are crankshaft pulleys that protect components in accessory drive systems. They take out the NVH (noise vibration hardness) generated by the crankshaft. The pulleys achieve this thanks to rubber elements that connect the two main metal parts (Fig 1). The rubber is a damping agent, designed to absorb most of the vibrations. That’s why Gates encourages mechanics to install belt kits that include TVDs.
Consequential wear
Absorption of vibrations eventually causes TVD wear and sometimes misalignment. As well as providing less protection for other components, worn TVDs generate vibrations of their own. These excessive vibrations and noises are often misdiagnosed as problems caused by multi-ribbed belts.
Reasons for TVD replacement
TVDs begin to fail because:
- Internal rubber elements degenerate through wear
- Vibrations gradually increase
- Worn ‘stretch’ bolts add vibrations
Top TVD tips
Drive system components that are installed together should be replaced at the same time.
- Never replace TVDs with ordinary crankshaft pulleys
- Cheap/fake TVDs that
contain no damping elements could cause crankshafts to break - Always replace TVDs as part of belt kits
The best way to optimise performance and maximise protection for all drive system components is to install a TVD as part of a belt kit.
