harmonic balancer

The rubber has degraded in the harmonic balancer on my B230FT, the
timing mark has slipped about 30 degrees and I know it's just a matter
of time before the sections separate entirely. I've seen new OEM brand
ones available in the $130 range and aftermarket for about half that.
Does anyone have experience with the aftermarket versions? Are they
worth getting? I've seen some aftermarket parts that are equal or better
than OEM, but others are crap. I don't want to get screwed by junk and
have to buy another new one but I don't want to spend double on the same
thing either.

 

I've had some trouble with the harmonic balancer on my ol' 90 model 740
with the 230F but haven't had to replace it yet. I don't think I would be
afraid to use the IPD place out of Oregon for that part.
Bruce Burrus

 

I haven't checked IPD yet for that part, but usually their prices are
around double what the other mail order places charge. The advantage is
that IPD offers many unique products and their support is pretty good.

 

When I tried to pull up the price on the balancer it took me to wheel
rotors? So I couldn't get a price but I do know what you mean. Some things
are higher there. Hirch out of Phinex is another good place. I got an A/C
compressor from them and they stood behind it well when the time came.
Anyway, good luck with the balancer.