Nissan Repair: what is a dampner, harmonic balance, dampner

Question
Would a harmonic balance also be known or referred to as a damper? I sent a question to Calvin and he told me to make sure the damper was at tdc, But I am not sure what it exactly is.
He was maxed out with questions and I need to get this van running as soon as possible.

Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Dave

Answer
David,

The harmonic balancer is on the front of the engine. All the belts go around this pulley at the bottom of the engine.  The balancer is used to dampen vibrations in the crankshaft.  Normally, the timing marks are on the balancer.  If you rotate it around you should see the timing marks and there will be a pointer on the timing cover.  Line up the zero with the line and you are on top dead center.  After you do this you can reference other components like if you were to change the timing chain or belt.  You did not say which car you have so I do not know if you have a chain or a belt for timing...  Email me back if you need more information.