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Inexpensive harmonic balancer?

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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 08:15 AM
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Default Inexpensive harmonic balancer?

I need a new balancer, as the outer ring on mine has slipped. However, I can't see paying a couple hundred dollars for one. :mad

I have seen some in Jegs for less than $60. Are these any good? My car is just a daily driver that sees occasional action, I never rev past 6500rpm.

Also, should I install a timing cover or tape, so that I can set my timing advance? This is the main reason I'm replacing the balancer, to ensure that I can set the timing for maximum performance before adding the demon and other accessories. Would a timing light with advance be better?

Thanks in advance :seeya
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 08:16 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Sling Blade)

Almost forgot to ask, do I need external or internally balanced balancer?

The engine is from an 87 pickup, but with 79 accessories attached to it.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 08:35 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Sling Blade)

The stock style balancers are fine for an every day driver. If your engine is a 350 it is an internally balanced motor. The 400 SB and 454 BB are externally balanced motors.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 08:47 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Gordonm)

I agree that the stock style balancer's are fine. I would try to find one from GM, I just don't trust autozone with that sort of thing, but you might be able to rent a puller from them if needed.

I like the adjustible timing light, but if you have a good light now, and don't want to spend the money for a new one, then I would definately put tape on the balancer.

Looks under tips and see some of the articles that Lars has written on setting up the timing on a 350. I followed it and it really woke the motor up.

Good Luck.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 08:52 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Sling Blade)

I just bought a pioneer balancer from SUMMIT for $109 that fits my BB. I think the sb's are in the $70 range. They are a little tougher than stock and have the timing #'s etched into it so you don't have to use timing tape.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 10:02 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (BlackRat)

I just bought a pioneer balancer from SUMMIT for $109 that fits my BB. I think the sb's are in the $70 range. They are a little tougher than stock and have the timing #'s etched into it so you don't have to use timing tape.
:cool: That sounds like what I need to go with; I'd be willing to spend $70 on a unit with those features. :cheers:
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 10:03 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Sling Blade)

To use the deg. tape you must find true TDC thats why they use the tape for deg. the cam. 0 on the balancer is not always 0 on the engine.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 10:15 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Sling Blade)

http://sdpc2000.com/

has nice GM replacement balancers in the $60-70 range.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 10:27 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Sling Blade)

Inexpensive harmonic balancer?

I bought the balancer for my 1980 from the local Chevy Dealer. It was in stock.

GM carries LOTS of parts for our cars. The parts are "functional" replacements, meaning they work like the original part, they fit like the original part, and they look like the original part, but they don't share the original part number or subtle details that you need for a NCRS type restoration.

As my car is intended to be a driver, not up to NCRS standards, the parts work for me!

Short story: See your local Chevy dealer.
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Old Feb 20, 2004 | 10:49 AM
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Default Re: Inexpensive harmonic balancer? (Milest)

[QUOTE]I agree that the stock style balancer's are fine. I would try to find one from GM, I just don't trust autozone with that sort of thing, but you might be able to rent a puller from them if needed.

Make sure you also rent the tool to put the balancer on with. Do not use a hammer :smash: .
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