Hello. I recently purchased a GM crate engine. To my surprise it is equipped with a much upgraded balancer that has degree marks etched on the surface.

I also have a new "Professional Products" balancer that is black with white marks that is much easier to read.

Would the after market balancer in any way be a downgrade from what GM put on the engine? Would I be foolish to swap them?

Thanks,
Jon

JSD MOD 02/17/09

 

Personal preference. As long as they're the same diameter and the TDC timing mark is in the same location (usually directly over the keyway) then you can use the one you like the best. This is also assuming it's a 350 and uses a neutral balanced dampener. If it's a 383/400+ and needs an externally balanced dampener, you can't use a neutrally balanced one.

 

OK, Thanks. Yeah, it's a 383. I hadn't given any thought to the displacement making a difference. I think I'll return it and just rub some tire chalk into the markings on the GM one to make them stand out.
Thanks,
Jon

 

It's not the displacement that makes a difference, it's the way the rotating assembly is balanced.

Is this a GM 383, or a 383 SBC from somebody who builds crate engines?

Most likely it's an externally balanced engine, and therefore your internally balanced 350 damper will not work.

 

Yes, it's a GM zz383.
Jon

 

Use the damper that came on the engine.

You can do a wipe painting of the marks if you like.

 

Good idea!
Jon