As I collect more design specs (yes I used design, because it is an art) for what I figured would be a pretty straight forward head swap (my Cleveland 302 heads with 351 Cleveland Cobra Jet heads – some machine works – yes). But to get the most I’m going to look at changing up the cam, intake, rods, etc.
One thing I’ll be unwavering in selecting is a harmonic balance. There is a lot of vibration in my bored .030 302 and I need to get that under control. So I might over spend a bit here.
So let’s get down to it. The balancer is basically a damper for the combustion pulse shock that hits the crankshaft. It’s meant to help control the vibration and increase the crankshaft’s life span. Ideally you’ll need the heaviest for your engine, for example the small blocks (Ford) a 289 or Boss 3o2 balancer will work. We are talking the real parts (as opposed to unreal…no…) used or new old stock. For larger blocks you’ll need to find aftermarket balancers to fit those monsters. Pick the right balancer and you can even see a power increase and a smoother running engine. Remember the heavier they are the increased chances that you’ll put stress on the crankshaft and many crankshaft end (snoot) has been broken by a too heavy balancer.
This is a harmonic balancer for a Dodge. Remember street use doesn’t necessarily required a balancer. Get to your local Hot Rod shop if you need some suggestions.
Since the Mustang goes to the drag strip now and then I’m going to look at the aftermarket balancers.
Have some suggestions? Drop a note.
Thanks for reading.
Tim
