I tried to set my timing this past summer and realized my harmonic balancer is pitted so bad that I can't read any of the timing marks. I'm still learning how to work on my car and I would like to tackle replacing the harmonic balancer.
Engine: 302
My first question is do you have to remove the nut at the end of the crankshaft to remove the balancer? My guess is yes.
Second question is how do you keep the engine from turning while removing the crankshaft nut and the harmonic balancer? This youtube video recommends a top dead center stop. Is that safe or could it damage a cylinder head?
If you have a standard transmission, set the parking brake and shift it into reverse. Put a socket and breaker bar on the nut and whack the end of the bar with a hammer or use a cheater bar. If the car starts to move, put someone in the driver's seat to step on the brakes.
Best way, though, is to pull the radiator and use an impact wrench.
Impact wrench is best way. If you are removing it clean up the timing marks, buy some MSD timing tape. Looksbetter and more readable. Got mine on Advanced Auto website.
You can put for long bolts into the harmonic balancer (Where the pulley bolts in), and use a long screw driver or bar to catch two of the bolts (like a pry bar), and turn the balancer clockwise while you turn the nut counter-clockwise. Kind of hard to describer I guess.
I have also used a strap wrench on the pulley with a big crescent wrench on that against the frame rail, then wack the old 15/16" on the breaker bar. On the engine stand I just stick two flywheel bolts in and drop a long pry bar down through the mounting arms.
You will also need to buy or rent a harmonic balancer puller.
__________________
...FRH
1964.5 Coupe 1970 Coupe 2011 GT/CS
Last edited by Fordrevhead; 12-01-2012 at 10:47 PM.
if you'd rather not replace the balancer you can find TDC manually and use timing tape or mark TDC on the balancer and use a timing light with retard dial.
if you'd rather not replace the balancer you can find TDC manually and use timing tape or mark TDC on the balancer and use a timing light with retard dial.
Good advice! This is why I like the "dial-back" timing light.
__________________
Ken ..
64 1/2 Poppy Red too!, Cvt. Resto-Mod
333 Cu.in. T5z, 3:55, Dual 40 mm DCOE Webers
Performer RPM, CI cam, TFS/TWs, Tri-Ys, Discs w/Shelby Drums
Severna Park, MD
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Harmonic Balancer Questions
