Reasons for Crankshaft Pulley Rubber Aging?

[MacMia]

Crankshaft pulley rubber aging is primarily due to prolonged usage over time. Consequences of crankshaft pulley rubber aging: A damaged crankshaft pulley can affect the engine, leading to weakened vehicle power, engine idling or abnormal noises during acceleration, increased operational resistance and potential seizure. It may also snap the timing belt, cause valve damage, and necessitates immediate replacement as a faulty crankshaft pulley severely impacts engine performance. Replacement procedure for aged crankshaft pulley rubber: First, remove the air filter using a Phillips screwdriver and specialized tools. Detach the front grille with a Phillips screwdriver, then loosen the generator bracket bolts and the generator itself with tools. Remove the generator belt. Next, loosen the air conditioning compressor bracket bolts and detach the compressor belt. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the small hole at the transmission bottom to lock the flywheel, while simultaneously loosening the crankshaft pulley bolt with tools and removing it. At this point, the pulley should come off easily.

[VonLouis]

Every time I inspect the vehicle, I notice cracking issues with the crankshaft belt, primarily caused by accumulated friction wear. Extreme temperature fluctuations in the engine bay are particularly harsh on rubber - the compartment can reach 70-80°C in summer while becoming brittle in winter's cold. Oil leakage is another culprit; when engine seals fail, lubricant dripping onto the belt causes rubber layer swelling. Prolonged parking also accelerates hardening. Most overlooked is overtightened installation - mechanics applying excessive force during fitting leads to continuous tensile deformation. Regular inspections are crucial, as surface micro-cracks typically appear after about 60,000 kilometers of driving.

[ODawson]

I've closely observed aging belts, and the repeated temperature changes are truly the nemesis of rubber. During cold starts, the belt becomes as stiff as a rock, then turns overly soft when reaching operating temperature. Road splashes of antifreeze and engine oil corrode the rubber's molecular structure. The most damaging is improper handling, such as spraying carburetor cleaner on the belt surface - the solvent directly dissolves the rubber layer. Once when I opened the engine cover, I saw long-term sun-exposed belts covered with spiderweb cracks; UV radiation had robbed the rubber of its elasticity. I recommend checking every two years whether the belt edges are turning white and fraying.

[LaAurora]

Rubber aging is a natural process but can be delayed. The static electricity generated when the belt contacts the rotating crankshaft attracts metal debris, and these tiny particles wear the belt like sandpaper. Dust accumulation in the engine bay clogs the belt's texture, causing friction and overheating. A common mistake is ignoring the tensioner pulley's condition when replacing the belt, as a seized bearing in an old pulley accelerates wear. Driving through water during the rainy season makes the belt most prone to issues when operating wet. During maintenance, feel the inner side of the belt with your hand—if it becomes brittle and develops ridges, it's time for replacement.