Harmonic Balancer install help

[vmrod]

I've been quietly updating my car and have run into a problem.

I am trying to install a new harmonic balancer and still need to press it on about 3/8" or so. The threads inside the crank have pretty much failed. (They have been chased once already.) I do not want to hammer this thing on either. I have cleaned the end of the crank, and also have heated up the balancer prior to installation. (heat makes it expand)

Should I drill and retap the threads within my crank?

Thanks for the help! This problem is preventing me from checking out the new transmission!

 

[Fred's Vettes]

It's not the correct way but will work in your situation. You can place a piece of 2by4 across the entire width of the balancer and then tap the wood distributing the blow across the balancer. Like I said it's not by the book but have done many in the old days like that with no problems. Heating the balancer is not a good thing!!The rubber insert will lose its adhesion and the ring will slip.

 

[RodsnRides]

Fred's Vette's is right, but I prefer using a harmonic balancer installation tool. I got mine from Summit Racing, made by Moroso. If the engine is in the car, it's too difficult to give it a good whack. The tool is just easier all the way around.

He is also correct about heating it-unless you have it in a pan of oil and heat the snout that way-with a cold ice-soaked rag on the crank. That's the "cost-effective" method...

Rick

 

[vmrod]

I don't mind buying that tool, but the tool screws into the threaded hole in your crank. These threads are shot in my crank. So, I suppose it's the whack-it method. I'll need to remove it again, then do the heating thing. I only heat it to about 250F. The rubber should be able to take that temperature for a few minutes.

I'll post pics once I'm done reinstalling it.