RTV harmonic balancer washer?

[kmac5130]

I replaced my harmonic balancer and timing cover/front seal a few days ago. So far no leaks at all, but I remembered that there was some sort of resin/glue on the harmonic balancer’s washer from the factory when I went to remove it. I believe this was to prevent oil from potentially leaking through the keyway on the crankshaft, even though the key itself should ideally block oil.

As long as there is no leak, I won’t worry about it, but I was wondering, is it recommended to put a ring of rtv behind that washer before tightening down the bolt?

 

[macleanflood]

Or red Loctite...

-Mac

 

[sab]

As long as there is no leak, I won’t worry about it, but I was wondering, is it recommended to put a ring of rtv behind that washer before tightening down the bolt?

It's there to prevent a very slow leak around the key. You may not yet have a leak, but in time, you might. I put a dollop of RTV on the tip of my index finger and poke it into the front of the keyway on the crank, slide the key in, put another dollop on the top of the key, and then slide/tap the pulley on. It doesn't take much RTV.

 

[cparker249]

I replaced my harmonic balancer and timing cover/front seal a few days ago. So far no leaks at all, but I remembered that there was some sort of resin/glue on the harmonic balancer’s washer from the factory when I went to remove it. I believe this was to prevent oil from potentially leaking through the keyway on the crankshaft, even though the key itself should ideally block oil.

As long as there is no leak, I won’t worry about it, but I was wondering, is it recommended to put a ring of rtv behind that washer before tightening down the bolt?

You're good to go without the resin/glue, but adding a thin layer of RTV silicone sealant behind the washer can't hurt. It'll provide an extra barrier against leaks, just in case. Just make sure to clean the area and follow the manufacturer's torque specs.