I have the PP SFI balancer. I like it. One bonus of the PP is it has removable weights. So, if I ever rebuild the engine with a new crank that requires a 28oz balancer all I have to do is get the new weight. Or, for a zero balanced rotating assembly just remove the weight.
judging by the build quality of some of pro products other parts, i would definitely not trust something as crucial to engine longevity as a balancer to them. as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. just my $.02.....
Here's one I took off a bud's car....notice the rubber sticking out....you took the next step... They dry rot and lose their bond between the 2 rings...
With your mods on an old stock unit, it was onlt a matter of time...you lucked out actually...some guys have busted stuff up bad from a balancer taking a dump...
The balancer is located on a keyway with a woodfuff key to position it.. you'll need a puller to remove it...air gun will be nice to get that bolt out...15/16s I believe...
I scammed a new Romac for 185.00 in the Corral classifieds..check out the stocker, rubber hanging out of it..
i believe this happens cuz the rubber between the balancer and the pulley deteriorates over time and cant hold up to the stress of the engine anymore. Its actually a really quick job if you have the right tools. You can rent the harmonic balancer puller from kragens or lots of other parts stores. The hard part for me was loosening the bolt right in the center of the pulley, it took a 1/2 inch drive wrench and a jack handle that i put on the end of it, you also need to move the fan disconnect all the wiring in the way and move the overflow tank, it sounds like a lot but its pretty easy, just tedious. it also helps to have an impact gun to drive the big center bolt really tight, you do want it coming loose.
i believe this happens cuz the rubber between the balancer and the pulley deteriorates over time and cant hold up to the stress of the engine anymore. Its actually a really quick job if you have the right tools. You can rent the harmonic balancer puller from kragens or lots of other parts stores. The hard part for me was loosening the bolt right in the center of the pulley, it took a 1/2 inch drive wrench and a jack handle that i put on the end of it, you also need to move the fan disconnect all the wiring in the way and move the overflow tank, it sounds like a lot but its pretty easy, just tedious. it also helps to have an impact gun to drive the big center bolt really tight, you do want it coming loose.
Thanks for the pointers skylovia. I got the old one off. Now I am working on getting the motor back to TDC, and install the new one.
BTW, get yourself a ratche that is breaker-bar length and 1/2" drive. I got one when I lost my mind doing far to many mods. And it's still one of my favorite tools. Comes in handy in oh so many ways. Just gotta be sure not to over use it, cause it packs a ton of torque. I even used it to set the preload on my pinion bearing, which for those who've done it know that is a major PITA!!!