Harmonic balancer replacement.

[Spruill242]

Hey guys, So I'm getting ready to tackle an oil pump install and noticed there is a good amount of rubber starting to push out of the harmonic balancer. I've done a bit of research for a replacement. Both aftermarket and OE parts. The aftermarket brands, ATI or Fluidyne are into a few hundred dollars. The OE stuff I'm finding is anywhere from 75 to 150. At this point I'm going with an OE replacement. My concerns are that there are some many different companies making replacement balancers. Just wondering if anyone has experience with any of the companies offering these. Thanks

[351fifty]

subbed for info, good question, and what do they do anyway? judging by the name i can only say they quiet it down

[backwoodsboy]

Originally Posted by 351fifty

subbed for info, good question, and what do they do anyway? judging by the name i can only say they quiet it down

Yes and no.
Basically it mounts to the crankshaft and dampens vibrations (harmonic resonance) caused by the combustion process protecting the crankshaft journals from damage.

[GreenF350]

It dampens the rotational "pulses" from firing and helps keep them from being transmitted to other parts. When I did my oil pump (really easy job BTW, why aren't all motors designed like that?) my stocker was a little scored where the seal rides. I could have just sleeved it, but that is no fun so in my case I went with a Fluiddampr. Didn't notice a difference really, but piece of mind knowing that when I get injectors I have a bit more insurance against damage. I can recommend Fluiddampr, but it was super pricey @ $400 so I understand if you would rather a stock replacement. As for that....have to wait for someone else, I have no personal experience.
-Aaron