I have a 93 Tr 2.6l auto that has been running like a dream lately. Yesterday after reversing a short distance the main belt came off the alternator/powersteering/crankshaft pulleys. Belt was unbroken so we put it back on and on starting the car there was a lots of belt noise and the crankshaft pulley actually moved about a cm away from the motor. We check the retaining bolt and it was still tight and could push the pulley back into place. There is no strange engine noises and it still runs as good as ever...but each time we start it the belt comes off because of the pulley moving.
The only thing we can figure is the bearings are gone which is a major job to fix which we cannot afford. Is there anything else that could possibly be causing this to occur that we have overlooked.There is still no abnormal engine noises that I would expect to hear if the bearings were had it.
Thanks

Which part of the pulley is moving? If it is just the outer ring, it is the harmonic balancer and you will need to replace the pulley.

There are no bearings in that area that can account for this, end play of the crankshaft is controlled by the main bearings on the crankshaft, and if you have 1 cm of play there, the engine is in big trouble.

Try taking that belt off, and pulling the outer ring of the pulley away from the motor. If it comes off altogether but leaves the central part of the pulley on the crank, you know you need a new pulley.

Read: http://www.aussiemagna.com/forums/showthread.php?t=81153

PS Cars break down, irrespective of your financial ability to fix - hence a lot end up at the wreckers.

Thanks so much Madmax...yes it would seem that is the case. Spent a whole night stressing out for nothing.

Can anyone suggest the best place to get a new harmonic balancer pulley in Brisbane please. We have rung the usual places like Repco and Bursons and were told around $380...would be great to get one a bit cheaper. Also I am just assuming it is best to replace with a brand new part rather than a secondhand one?

go to the wreckers . i just rang around here and was quoted over $300 as well.

Wreckers, definitely. Lots of second gen Magnas at most wreckers. Find one that will pull it off for you, saves a lot of hassle.

Is it honestly worthwhile putting a second hand balancer pulley on though? With the effort involved in changing it we will not be looking at wanting to do it again.

It's a 20 year old car. Are you planning to keep it for another 20 years? If so, get a new one.