Okay, engine builders, let me tax your gray matter today.
I have a 1980 302. It has a 1985 crank in it. The harmonic balancer matches the crank. There were 3 different flywheels(so I've been told) available for that year. According to part numbers I have one of the three. It has original pistons in it. Now for the questions. Does the 85 crank match the original (1980) pistons for balance. I have tried 5 different harmonic balancers and 4 different flywheels. This motor still vibrates badly sitting in the driveway as you rev it up. Need more info, just ask. I'm at my wits end trying to know what to do next.
Thanks
Gary Rubendall

 

couple questions then maybe i can help.

how was this crank installed as the late 302's have a one piece rear main seal and the earlier 302's had a 2 piece seal.

what year did the balance change from 28.2 oz to 50 oz? i thought it was 81 or 82.

did you check the late flywheel and make sure the weights havent come off?

only other option i can offer is to pull the engine and have it balanced and then reinstall it as running it out of balance will damage the engine.

 

You may get better advice in the small block forum, down a little ways from this one. Sounds like you havent found the correct flywheel yet.

Nathan

 

I thought about the small block list as soon as I posted but I'm so use to coming and reading this list because my truck is a '64. I envy you, Nathan for having "stock" trucks. Mine was not when I bought it.
Donsboy, I went yesterday to check on a price for balancing the motor. All totaled it will be almost $1,000.00. Don't know if I can afford that right now.
Thanks guys, you were the only brave souls to even venture a guess.
Gary

 

Gary, stock trucks are great! That said, my first truck was a 62 4x2 with a 302 from a 74 maverick. That thing would RUN! even though the motor was factory stock. Suprised alot of Ch%$y guys when they found out it was only a 2bbl!

Nathan

 

Nathan
Seems I remember reading that you have a couple of stock '64's. Have you got a trade-in price on the CC? I'll bet that would solve a lot of my problems. Maybe if I had just found a better engine builder to start with I wouldn't have these problems now. I'm not suppose to say that. That's hateful. But what can I say?I can't drive my truck. (Yes, I'll have some cheese with that whine).

 

I have 1 64 with the original motor and tranny, but some minor mods. The 62s body now sits on a 79 4x4 chassis, not very stock there. My brother has a 64, and sister has a 66 camper special.

Nathan

 

I've been thinking about a 302 for my 65. Is it a bolt in. What mounts would I need and how is the performance. Im not worried about getting a bunch of speed but still want some pep when I step. I dont haul anything except for our mountain bikes so hauling is not a factor?

Thanks
Jay