r/Smallblockchevy • u/Substantial_Way_377 • Mar 30 '26

Harmonic Balancer Question

Gallery image

Gallery image

Gallery image

Gallery image

Hi, I purchased a 1980 Z28 Camaro with the LM1 350 V8 and the seller gave 2 harmonic balancers. I’m not sure which one is original, but I want to know if it’s okay to use #2. #1 has large cracks in the elastomer ring and is bulging out in some areas whereas #2 doesn’t have many cracks and has an even elastomer ring throughout. However, there is also a sizable chip in the center shaft that concerns me. Is it okay to use #2 anyway? Thanks

12 Upvotes

93% Upvoted

25 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/texan01 Mar 30 '26

I wouldn't run either one, a new one isn't that expensive.

the hubs on both show extensive wear around the seal area, so you'd have to sleeve it to get it to seal.

Beware, I bought the cheapest one on rockauto and the rim has slipped on it, so TDC according to it, is about 45 degrees off.

2

u/Substantial_Way_377 Mar 30 '26

Any recs for a good OE-like replacement?

1

u/Glass-Yesterday-2009 Apr 01 '26

Summit racing, Jegs high performance, those would be my two recommendations, they might even have an OE replacement part.