Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Harmonic Balancer inspection/issues

[Bartman001]

Hello All,
I continue to have the issue of the belt running right of the A/C pump pulley and eating the belts on rib at a time...
I have replaced the alternator/water pump/tensioner&pulley/and a A/C bypass pulley.... No change at all after new parts...
Thinking harmonic balancer pulley? What else could it possibly be?
I don' t see it move/wiggle at idle, but the rubber appears to be about 1/16 out of the front side.
I have good power, 385hp at rear wheels.
Is buying one on eBay a good idea?
I know the big buck ones are nice... But I need it back on the road! It's winter here!
I have chewed of many belts and it's killin me... Please help.
Thank you all

 

[JR]

Have you put a straight edge across your pullys to see if one accessory is out of alignment with the rest? Given the age of your damper it's not a bad idea to be proactive and replace it. It seems like you've pretty well covered the bases so there isn't too much else to try. I have been struggling with the price difference between OEM and a Fluid damper as well, but looking closely at the test data it's hard to over look the advantages of running one.
I've bought lots of parts off of ebay with no problems. Just make sure your dealing with a respected seller with good reviews. Also check out Genos, they have good prices and I've always had my orders on my doorstep within 2 to 3 Days.

 

[Bartman001]

No, I have not. But nothing has changed? I have the same issue from all stock parts to now having all new.
The minute I hit the key, it's off a rib on the AC pulley, AC pump or bypass bracket... The same with either on.
Killin me.....
Thanks!

 

[JR]

It just seems that the damper would have to be pretty bad to chew belts so frequently....very strange.
Have you had someone else start the truck while you watch the belt to see if you can track down where it's walking? If it throws it right off the get go, maybe disconnect the VP so you can have someone crank the engine without actually starting it? Just throwing some ideas out there before you resort to condemning the damper.

 

[Bartman001]

How is the dampener to change?
Is there anything else that could cause the belt to go off a rib right after I hit the key??
Thank you all. Much appreciated

 

[Dieseldemon]

Yes the crank thrust brg will cause this. Put a bar on the damper and pry it back and forth spects are 004 to 012 any more and it is worn