Viscous Dampers

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Apr 16, 2020 | 11:41 PM

crazy96863

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Cargo Master

Joined: May 2011

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From: Northern California

Viscous Dampers

I just watched a video by Gale Banks where he makes a compelling argument for viscous dampers for engines built beyond stock. Even for stock, there are probably benefits for longevity. If you have 30 minutes it’s worth the watch.

Here is the video:

The company that made the product he discusses makes one for the 429/460 & FE. The product details are available here: https://fluidampr.com/ford/#5

I just had a 390 mildly built... mostly cam and intake but it’s bored over 0.040” as well. It’s my intention to take care of it but I’m going to use it too. I know it will most likely be fine for years to come without upgrading the damper but Banks makes some compelling statements and it’s got me thinking.

Is it worth the $400-$500 to upgrade the damper? I’m posting this so at the very least considering it. Looking for some thoughts on the matter. Thanks!

Apr 17, 2020 | 05:26 AM

'65Ford

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Definitely get a new damper because they do degrade over time. However, the FE builders that I rely on for info say to stay away from the fluid damper.

Apr 17, 2020 | 07:14 AM

crazy96863

Thread Starter

Cargo Master

Joined: May 2011

Posts: 2,387

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From: Northern California

Quote:

Originally Posted by '65Ford

Definitely get a new damper because they do degrade over time. However, the FE builders that I rely on for info say to stay away from the fluid damper.

any idea where I can read more into this?

Apr 17, 2020 | 10:25 AM

'65Ford

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Here's a link where they mention the fluid damper. These guys specialize in FE's and are a really good bunch of helpful fellas. I've followed these guys for quite a while and trust their knowledge of the FE engine. They have a couple more threads that you can search for under fluid damper.

Harmonic Dampers: Fluidampr vs TCI vs Romac vs ATI vs Innov. West vs ???

Apr 18, 2020 | 09:30 PM

Beechkid

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From: Southern California

Fluid dampners have been around for a few decades...…. IMHO, if yur running that high of a performance engine, your dampners are going to be a rated component anyway... Just either get a new oem replacement unit or have yours rebuilt and have it balanced to YOUR engine..... it will last another few decades, be smooth a silk and save yourself about $300+ dollars!