silent shaft ???

Hi all, new member,
How important is the silent shaft, and what is the function? (90 Mit..4cyl)
Reason for asking, I decided to replace the timing belt 140k mi, the silent shaft belt was in a wad/broken. Engine was running OK, no vibration at freeway,or any speed. Why do I need it, what would it harm if left off?
Not trying to re engineer anything, just wondering. I've had the truck for about a year and put about 10k on it, with no problems.

Thanks in advance....Bill

Thats the balance shaft you can buy a kit to eliminate that shaft. you really dont need it,I removed mine the truck runs great and you pick up a few extra horsepower too.

Thanks insanemitsu ,
I just left the belt off when I reassembled it. Engine runs OK, so I'll just drive it, the truck had been parked for about 5 years, a friend gave it to me to get it out of his way, put about 10K since I have it,it was clocking about 25/27 MPG. So far have about $400 invested, new tires,batt,gas tank,etc. Thanks for your input.

Bill

you dont want to just leave it off it runs the oil pump if im not mistaken

on the enigines i know of they have a right and left silent shaft and only one runs the oil pump on mine the driver side is the oil pump and runs off timing belf