Harmonic balancer issue

[SecondGenFan]

100897100898

I tried reinstalling my balancer and could not get it to seat all the way down. Measured the crank journal and the balancer. Pics show what I found. This is the balancer that came with the engine. Any thoughts?

[TheJDMan]

What engine are you working on and what are you trying to show us? On a SBC for example, the balancer only goes on the crank a little over 1 inch before it seats against the timing gear.

[SecondGenFan]

What engine are you working on and what are you trying to show us? On a SBC for example, the balancer only goes on the crank a little over 1 inch before it seats against the timing gear.

Thank you The JD man! That info would have been helpfull to you guys! :hammer:

Its a small block chevy. When it seats the bolt does not even reach. What you are saying makes sense with what is happening. Big gap between the end of the crack journal and the front face of the balancer.

[TheJDMan]

When a SBC balancer is fully seated the there will be at least 1" recess remaining from the nose of the crank to the face of the balancer. That said, I am a bit curious how you are seating the balancer if the bolt will not reach the crank. Any pic of it installed?

[V8240Z]

Just a note, the snout of the balancer looks a bit scored. I would install a seal saver on it before reinstalling it, Also depending on the year of the small block, early cranks were not threaded. If it is treaded use an installer with a bearing and then use the bolt to lock it on. If the rubber ring in the balancer looks questionable (cracking, distorting) replace the balancer.

[JEFFTATE]

Heat the harmonic balancer / dampener in the oven for 15 minutes at 250 degrees.
It will expand and go on the crank snout much easier.
Also smear a little grease on the crank snout.
Make sure the key-way lines up ,
Here's some instructions from Summit Racing on installing their balancer :
http://static.summitracing.com/global/images/instructions/sum-161350.pdf