Parts for your 2020 Holden Colorado-Harmonic balancers

2020 Holden Colorado harmonic balancer

Technical sources confirm the 2020 Holden Colorado 2.8‑litre turbo‑diesel is fitted with a harmonic balancer (also called a crankshaft balancer or torsional vibration damper). GM Global Service Information (SI) includes a “Crankshaft Balancer Replacement” procedure for the 2.8L Duramax/XLD28 engine used in the RG Colorado, the Holden RG Colorado workshop manual lists the part in Engine Mechanical, and major parts catalogues (e.g., ACDelco/Dayco) list a dedicated vibration damper for 2012–2020 Colorado models. So yes—this ute uses a harmonic balancer.

On the 2020 Colorado, the harmonic balancer’s job is to soak up the crankshaft’s torsional vibrations created every time a cylinder fires. The balancer is a two‑piece pulley and inertia ring bonded with rubber, it keeps the crank happy, accessories running smoothly, and helps reduce cabin vibration. For a workhorse that tows, hauls, and sees plenty of outback or Kiwi backroad duty, keeping the balancer in good nick protects the bottom end and the accessory drive.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but it should be inspected during routine servicing—especially whenever the drive belt is replaced or tensioner/idlers are checked. Look closely for cracked or perished rubber between the hub and outer ring, any wobble with the engine idling, belt tracking that’s out of line, or an oily mess around the crank seal that may be softening the rubber. Unusual vibrations at idle or a chirp/rumble from the front of the engine are red flags.

• Best practice at replacement: use a proper balancer installer (don’t hammer it on), fit a new crankshaft bolt (it’s torque‑to‑yield on this engine), and tighten to the factory torque/angle spec from GM SI.
• Check the front crank seal and accessory belt while you’re there—cheap insurance.
• If it’s been off‑road or through water crossings, inspect more often as contamination can accelerate rubber degradation.

Ignoring a failing damper can lead to cracked accessory brackets, shredded belts, and, in the worst case, crankshaft damage. For most owners, a visual check every service and a more thorough look when the belt’s off is the go. If any doubt, replace—balancers are far cheaper than a bottom‑end rebuild, and the Colorado’s diesel will thank you with smoother running and less buzz through the cab.

FAQs

Does a 2020 Holden Colorado have a harmonic balancer?
Yes. The 2.8L turbo‑diesel (Duramax/XLD28) uses a crankshaft harmonic balancer, confirmed by GM SI procedures and the RG Colorado workshop manual. It’s the front pulley assembly with a bonded rubber damper.

What are the symptoms of a bad harmonic balancer on a 2020 Colorado?
Look for front‑of‑engine vibration, a wobbling crank pulley, perished or separated rubber, belt squeal or wandering, and oil contamination around the balancer. Any knocking or rumbling that changes with revs is also a clue.

When should the harmonic balancer be replaced?
There’s no set kilometre interval. Replace if there’s any damage, wobble, or rubber deterioration, or when tackling related jobs like a front crank seal. Always use a new crank bolt and the correct install/torque procedure.