Harmonic Balancer...

**WILMASBOYL78** · #1 09-27-2023, 04:20 PM

I just installed a new MSD distributor in my 85 GMC Sierra pickup. The truck came with a 305 new...I replaced it with a GM base 350 about 23 years ago.

My shop tells me the balancer hub has moved...and they had to play around a little to re-time the motor with the new distributor.

Anyway...it runs ok, but I should probably replace the balancer, but I can't remember if the engine came with it or we re-used the factory one. Online photos seem to indicate they were delivered minus the balancer. So this may be the original unit.

What do you folks recommend for a replacement?? This is not a hi-perf setup...just the stock low-horse crate engine.

thanks,

wilma

**Zman1969** · #2 09-28-2023, 01:54 PM

Wilma I think I'd just look for similar used unit is it 8" or 7"?

**Too Many Projects** · #3 09-28-2023, 05:46 PM

Yeah, size is about all that is important, at least that's what she said...

I'd look for a quality replacement and not the least expensive chinesium part, if that is even possible to get anymore.

**hogdaddy** · #4 09-28-2023, 08:12 PM

ATI are U.S. made but not cheap.

MSD stuff is made in China IIRC.
I would rather have a U.S. made distributor and the balancer Chinese.

MSD plug wires seem fine so far on mine.

**scuncio** · #5 09-28-2023, 11:22 PM

The 8" SBC balancers can be found NOS on eBay pretty readily. I believe even the newer NOS stuff is still made in Canada.

**all_about_cars** · #6 09-29-2023, 01:22 AM

You should see where the timing tab is. I believe the earlier balancers have. The Top dead center timing mark on the balancer in a different place. Earlier engines had timing tab toward right side looking at the front of engine and the later engines were located at the top of timing cover. If removing balancer to get cast number is an option I would do that or at least do some research. Hope that makes sense on the timing tab reference.