Should I go stock balancer, or an aftermarket ATI setup? I am sure my STOCK one is tired by now... but these are relatively expensive. What brand do you like, and is it necessary ( when going from a stockish engine, to a 500hp fi'd fuel injected beast (new pistons, rods, heads, ect) ?! Thank you ---

I used a summit brand balancer. Not the best I'm sure, but it fit my budget. It's 2 years old now and is still fine.

Whatever you get, get on that is degreed, and an adjustable needle pointer to go with it. Invaluable for checking total timing.

For what it is worth I recommend an elastomer balancer for your motor. Buy one that is SFI rated.

Larger Dave

I bought an ATI super street damper for my internal balance 406 build. Since my motor was built to peak right at 6,000 rpm, my engine builder didn't see a need to send the extra 100 dollars on the SFI damper.

BHJ Dampers are Super. Although I've had no experience with Fluid Dampers I would stay away from them particularly if you live in Northern Climates.

Thanks guys, one thing I have learned is to "upgrade" and stay away from the "stock" one I have , lol ---

I am using the stock GM Performance balancer, cleaned it, laid the timing tape on, sprayed with clear, just to keep tape sealed.

I just installed a tci rattler on my small block in my 69. Haven't fired it up yet, but I can't wait too. I bought one of there adjustable pointers, but I can't use it. My power steering bracket hits the pointer. It was either grind down part of the bracket or just use the one that came with my timing cover which I did.

BHJ is the best damper I've found. They have factory replacements and SFI versions. I haven't trusted the fluid filled ones since the front of my friends crankshaft broke off for no reason whatsoever. We called the crankshaft company if the had ever seen this problem and the tech's first question was, "Are you running a Fluidamper?"

I'll stick to BHJ.

:)
Tony Huntimer
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