Global aftermarket solutions and services provider Continental has offered some important advice on regularly checking TVDs. In many vehicle models, torsional vibration dampers (TVDs) ensure that the multi V-belt runs smoothly. However, they can start to display signs of wear and defects over time, so regular inspection is important. 

A multi V-belt transmits power from the engine to ancillary units such as the alternator, power steering hydraulic pump, air conditioning compressor, fan and the water pump. TVDs are used in many vehicles to ensure that the belts run smoothly and with as little vibration as possible. They replace the rigid pulleys on which the multi V-belt normally rests and absorb vibrations through special elastomer elements. This means reduced noise and slippage and also leads to longer component life. Decoupled torsional vibration dampers go one step further, completely decoupling the belt drive from the crankshaft, preventing the transmission of torsional vibrations from the crankshaft.

Continuous stress and environmental influences in the engine compartment cause TVD elastomer elements to harden, resulting in chipping and cracking over time. In the worst-case scenario the outer part can even become detached from the inner ring. The sure signs of a defective TVD are fluttering multi V-belts, an unsteady tensioner and increased engine noise and vibration. These all lead to faster wear of the drive components, and in extreme cases even to breakage of the crankshaft. Vehicles such as taxis, which are frequently operated at idle speed, and engines modified by chip tuning place particularly high stress on TVDs, so it are always worth extra checks.

Continental recommends that technicians should always check the condition of the TVDs on all vehicles after 60,000 kilometres of operation to see if cracks are visible or if the TVD is deformed or peeling. On some torsional vibration dampers, indicators on elongated holes indicate the current state of wear. However, the TVDs should always be replaced after 120,000 kilometres at the latest. This will avoid major damage to the crankshaft. Although TVDs can be changed, they can’t be retrofitted because they’re always specifically matched to each engine.

Contiental make the replace process simple as technicians do not have to separately order the matching screws for the TVD washer. Its TVD washer range now has 10 new types, and each washer is supplied with a matching fixing screw. This is because the manufacturer’s specifications often stipulate that the right screw must also be replaced along with the TVD. These special expansion screws are now included in Continental package, and they cover the most important applications in the market. For example:

VD1094S for Citroen 1.6 HDi
VD1080S for Peugeot 2.0 HDi
VD1104S for Nissan 1.9 dCi
VD1002S for VW 2.TDi
VD1105S for BMW 3.0d
VD1110S for Ford 2.0D
VD1120S for BMW 2.0d
VD1113S for Renault 1.5 dCi
VD1127S for BMW 18d
VD1031S for Opel 2.2DTI

More information about the products can be found in the Continental Product Information Centre