Can I start my engine to test my new timing belt ,without the crank pulley damper?

Question

I want to make sure that my car idles correctly after replacing the timing belt, the crank pulley damper is in the way and it would make it a lot easier if I keep it off until I see it idles correctly.

Answer 1

you can do it but it is a horrible idea. besides the idle would be thrown off by not having it making your test useless

Answer 2

in some situations yes you can start it but you will hear noises and run the risk of damaging the engine . as i said before the harmonic balancer is  part of the crank shaft assembly. it might not idle correctly without it if the crank position sensor is part of that part. i would wait for the part to come in and do it all at one time.  

Answer 3

Not a good idea!! Most engines rely on the damper for balance..

Answer 4

Start it to see if it starts, then shut it down. I would not let it run more than 15 or 20 seconds. You have no water circulation, no charging system, and it is just a shaky thing. Good Luck!

Answer 5

as long as the dampner isnt part of the crank sensor should be able to

Answer 6

It depends on what type of car you have. I don't understand why noone seems to mention details of what kind of car they have on here. Cars can be very different from each other.

  If the balancer has reluctors on it for the crankshaft position sensor on it, your car will not run without it. The other thing you have to worry about is sometimes there is a washer behind the balancer that holds the timing belt from walking off the pulleys. So if you don't have reluctors and there is something else to hold the belt from walking off the pulleys go ahead and start it up. I would recomend rotating the engine over by hand and then double or triple check your timing mark alignment before you start it. If the engine is not interference then it's not as big of an issue. If your in doubt make positive sure you have everything aligned properly or it will cost you an engine.