C-1 Harmonic Balancer

[Gary E.]

I am in the process of changing the harmonic balancer seal in the timing chain cover on my 62 250hp and notice that there is a slight groove in the surface that would come in contact with the seal. Should there be any? I don't have another to compare to so I am not sure if this is normal wear or if I reuse it will I have a leaker. Any help with this issue will be appreciated. As always thanks for your help.

[Tracy C.]

Re: C-1 Harmonic Balancer

Gary,

This groove is normal wear, but it will eventually cause leakage. There are stainless sleeves available to press fit over the input shaft of the balancer. Felpro makes one for about $5. You local automotive parts house should carry it in stock.

I have no experience with these in use but I have installed one. The fit is pretty snug so I put the balancer in the freezer overnight and soaked the sleeve in hot water prior to installation.

Use a block of wood large enough to cover the sleeve dia and drive it place by tapping on the block of wood.

good luck,
tc

[Joe L.]

Re: C-1 Harmonic Balancer

tracy and Gary-----

The sleeve will work well but it must go on 100% STRAIGHT. If it goes on even slightly crooked and, consequently, becomes slightly distorted, it will leak for sure. I use Lock-Tite sleeve locking compound (green) between the sleeve and the balancer snout to ensure that no "leakpaths" can exist between the sleeve and the original balancer seal surface.

Also on the market are special front seals which have the seal lip slightly displaced from the original design. These seals cause the sealing surface to be a "fresh", non-worn spot on the balancer sealing surface. I've never used one of these primarily because I've never been able to find one when I needed it. However, I really think that these would be the best solution.

[Tracy C.]

Re: C-1 Harmonic Balancer

I agree Joe, an oil seal with a new offset wear location would be a better solution.

Any additional information on locating one of these would be appreciated as my balancer is showing a mark but it isn't really detectable with a fingernail yet...

tc