harminic balancer problem

[trudysduster]

I need to know if I can change the harmonic balancer on my 440 so I can put the timing tab on to get this thing timed properly. This balancer is huge and it sticks out so the tab will not bolt to the bottom 2 bolts on the timing cover. This engine came out of a 1976 RV and the balancer stayed in it during the rebuild. I have seen thinner ones but dont know anything about changing it and throwing the engine out of balance. what are your thoughts on this.I tried to upload the 2 pics of it and it will not let me here. I will try on the b-body side. it usually lets me there. thanks,Bill

 

[demon seed]

Does your balancer look like the one on the left in the second picture, it probably is and is for a cast crank. Talk to Hughes Engines and see if they can recommend a thin balancer with the counterweights on the inside for a cast crank (externally balanced).

http://www.moparts.org/Tech/Archive/bb/50.html

 

[trudysduster]

yep that is what it looks like. and it will not allow me to put a timing tab on there. I not only think the thickness is a problem but also the diameter around it too much. It kinda extends past the timing tab bolts. I will talk to them. So that is what balances the engine.

 

[trudysduster]

would it be better if I just got a factory timing cover for a cast crank that has the timing tab in the proper position for the balancer since it is so big in diameter.

 

[oldkimmer]

............that should work too.............kim............

 

[trudysduster]

thanks,Kim I just hate to change the cover and all the accessories involved.

 

[mad accountant]

I think you could put # 1 at TDC and scribe a mark on the timing cover in line with the mark on the damper. Put a timing tape on the damper, and you should be good to go without having to buy anything new. Rub some chalk on the scribe mark to make it show up under the timing light.

 

[mad accountant]

You could put #1 at TDC, and scribe a mark on the timing cover in line with the mark on the balancer. Put a timing tape on the balancer, chalk up the scribe mark and you should be all set. Only thing you'd have to buy and install is the timing tape. Assuming, of course, that you don't mind scraching a mark on the cover in the first place.