timing mark off on harmonic balancer?

[resq302]

Getting ready to reinstall the harmonic balancer and I noticed that the timing mark is not lined up with the key way section on the hub.  Are these supposed to be lined up?  If so, I'm guessing that would mean that the outer ring spun.  The rubber piece that is sandwiched between the hub and the outer ring seems to be in good shape and does not appear to be dry rotted or anything. 

Your input would be greatly appreciated.

[firefighter3931]

Hey Brian,

Easy way to check balancer indexing is to use a piston stop ;

-install the piston stop in the #1 sparkplug hole
-rotate engine clockwise until the piston makes contact and make a mark on the balancer using the timing cover scale (I use zero but you can use whatever you want as a reference)
-rotate the engine counterclockwise until it stops and make a second mark using the same reference point.

*measure the distance and divide in half. The midpoint between these two marks is TDC. If the outer ring has not slipped the midpoint will be right on the scribed line on your balancer. 

Let us know what you find 


Ron


Ps. Remove all the plugs because it will make the engine easier to rotate using the breaker bar/ratchet

[fy469rtse]

I did this with brand new engine , new damper, it was out also , just re stamped it , bought Timing tape to use when start up happens , couldn't read the degree marks on it anyway

[resq302]

Hi Ron,

Thanks for your input as always.  The plugs are out of the car and from what I have found out so far, if the key way is at high noon, the timing mark should line up to 0 on the left hand side.  From what I remember, thats how it was yesterday when I put it on.  I also have the plugs out as I'm repainting the engine as someone did a really crappy prep job the last time and most of the paint is peeling off.

[firefighter3931]

You're welcome Brian 

The piston stop method is the only way to accurately measure indexing on a balancer. I allways check them for piece of mind. The timing mark is your reference point for ignition adjustments and if that mark is off ; you'll never get the timing where it needs to be. This leads to headaches and lost power and potential damage (detonation)


Ron