My 98 vert needs a balancer and im getting the parts together.
The outside of the balancer completely spun off the center. My question is , do you think I should expect to find additional damage?
Im thinking the timing cover may be damaged or if you guys can think of anything else. thanks...by the way advance auto is lending me a balancer puller/ installer kit .......

 

Aside from the front cover (if damaged), you'll of course need a new crank seal and gasket. I would recommend using an ARP crank bolt instead of the OE, unless you want to also deal with having to borrow/buy/rent a torque angle gauge to install a GM bolt. The ARP bolt IS re-usable should you ever have to go back inside the engine in the future and no torque angle gauge is need to install.

You'll also need two water pump gaskets as well, and since you have an early LS1, you'll likely be doing some (cautious) gasket scrapping of the old paper gaskets used on the early engines. I know paper was used in '97 and I'm pretty sure the '98s had them from the factory as well. Once the surface is clean, do not use any sealer of any kind when re-installing the (now updated) newer-designed gaskets. Install them dry. Look for any signs of corrosion on the 6 wp bolts as well, and either replace them or wire brush and use anti-seize.

If you decide to replace the timing chain, I'd recommend the OE LS2 chain. Much better chain and bolts right up.

HTH

BTW, I would recommend installing a Powerbond balancer, even if you chose to not use the under drive version. Quality is MUCH better than OE.

 

The tools at advance and autozone will not install it. You can get the puller with three jaws on it for a Chrysler. That will pull it for you. The install tools are way to short. I borrowed an installer from my tuner.
Chris

 

Buy the Hawk Balancer install tool, do a search.

 

We have that tool available and ready to go!

We also sell any of the balancers you would need. The powerbond underdrive is the most popular esp for the price, followed by the ATI. Both are good quality, while the ATI is in the upper eschelon of the balancer/pulley world. Always make sure to use a new crank bolt as well. GM or ARP, we have them as well.

Links to all 3!
Hawk Installer Tool
Powerbond Underdrive
ATI Underdrive

The only one we do not offer that is handy is the removal tool
But here is the link for it also!

And while you have it off, we would HIGHLY recommend pinning the crank as well. We have seen stock and aftermarket balancers spin on the crank as well, which can cause alot larger problems than just a new balancer. The ATI kit is here.

 

 

We also carry all the gaskets you'll need. They all use the neoprene type seal so they are better than the old paper style.

While you are at it. Swap out that oil pump. The 97-98 pumps we're known to fail alot.

 

You are smart to suspect more damage. I had my OEM walk off the center hub and into the timing cover. I replaced only the balancer after seeing no leaks and slight marks from where it touched. Soon after, I got a leak. Luckily, I was ready to do a cam swap anyway, but that would have been a bad situation if not.
I listened to the strong recommendations and went with the ATI super-damper and pin kit. Should never have to worry again.