sewerpickle

iTrader: (3)

Doing a budget minded build but willing to spend some money when it's necessary. 5.3 SBE, LJMS stage2 turbo cam, stock heads, LJMS springs, truck manifolds, ls6 intake, truck accessories, #210 injectors on E85, S475 turbo, 15+psi.

When is it necessary to upgrade to an aftermarket balancer?

Chris97b

iTrader: (1)

From what I understand (and may the gurus correct me if I am wrong) the point of an aftermarket balancer is more about underdrive than the factory balancer having issues. Essentially an underdrive pulley runs the accessories (P/S, Alternator, Water Pump, and possibly A/C) at lower speeds to reduce the power losses from the motor to turn said accessories.

psicko

The aftermarket dampeners are meant to help absorb harmful harmonics in the engine. When you get into the higher RPM, or if you want to underdrive your accessories like Chris said, then you may want to consider one. The stock one, unless damaged or deteriorating, should be fine for most applications.