Yesterday I was going to leave my house when I heard an odd noise coming from the front end that sounded like something was rubbing on the fan. I opened it up to see the inside cylinder (maybe damper?) of the harmonic balancer had separated and was moving in and out, hitting the fan in the process. After turning it off I was able to easily remove the piece but after doing a little research I’m not exactly sure what the purpose of the piece is besides for helping to remove the harmonic balancer itself. Does anyone have anymore information or know if the harmonic balancer needs to be replaced? I’ve attached a couple photos for reference. Thanks!

 

Well, given the function of the harmonic balancer, it's necessary to proper operation of the engine. SO, I would get a new one before continuing to operate the engine..

Just my opinion.
Pat☺

 

Probably be just fine to run it., right up until the crankshaft breaks in half.

Seriously, I'd change it for a sound one before further operation.

 

Does the damper or whatever the piece is that fell out play a vital role in preventing it from breaking in this case? Apologies if I’m asking dumb questions, it just seems like it will be an expensive fix so I’m trying to understand before taking it to the shop. Thanks!

 

Does this portion that became separated play a part in the function of the harmonic balancer? I’m having a difficult time understanding what it actually does. I know it’s supposed to be attached via a rubber seal and helps with the removal of the harmonic balancer/crankshaft but does it do anything else? Thank you for the help

 

I am not privy to the Toyota engineering data and crankshaft torsion/strain measurements,
but It is certain that the harmonic balancer would not include that piece if it was not required to satisfy that components purpose.
If it's use was solely to enable the balancers removal, it would be solidly fixed rather than rubber bonded.

 

I would not drive mine without it.