Save your engine tip

[Argess]

If you have one of those harmonic balancers with the timing mark(s) engraved, stamped, etched, whtever, on the outer ring, put a little mark of white paint on the outer edges of the front pulley next to the TDC mark. The pulley is fastened to the center hub of the damper and can't slip.

The stories about the outside damper slipping are true. Mine was slipping a little bit at a time, and every time I adjusted the timing, I was unwittingly adding in advance. Eventually, I broke a piston due to detonation. Checking the damper against a new one, I found it was out by 30 degrees. Amazing the engine even started. I checked the new damper against the engine with #1 piston at TDC and it was correct. Next came the white paint.

With the paint, if the outer ring slips, you'll see the difference between the painted mark and the TDC mark and know it's time to replace the damper. Plus you can use the paint marks to time your engine while waiting for the new damper to arrive.

Note 1: My enigne was an FE, but I think this could apply to most engines.

Note 2: You can buy dampers with a sheet metal cover that has the timing amrks on it, yet is fastened to the center hub of the damper and can't slip.

Note 3: Prior to putting on the paint mark, it may be wise to check your damper is still accurate with a piston stop or other method.