Does a blower need a harmonic balancer?

[blown74]

Looking for some feedback on whether or not to install my BDS 871 blower with or without a harmonic balancer. I recently converted over to a hydraulic roller cam. While putting everything together I notice that my fluiddamper had a little wobble in it. My local machine shop ordered me a replacement but said it wouldn't work cause the size was different. I checked with BDS and they said nope doesn't need a balancer. So is installing one a complete waste of money or will it offer a little value? The rep for BDS said the blower belt would absorb all of the harmonics, thus a balancer isn't needed. I'm so close to firing the engine I can smell it... I posted a pic of how close I was before I removed the balancer. 

[heminut]

General consensus for years has been that a blown engine doesn't need a balancer and that the belt does indeed absorb the harmonics. BDS has been in the business for a long time and has probably got more experience in street blown engines than just about anyone out there. I wouldn't hesitate to go by what they recommend. Most blower kits come with a crank hub, not a balancer.

[gkring]

 
The only time you see a dampner on a blown car is because the car came with it stock and it is easier/cheaper to just keep the dampner.

[blown74]

Okay then next stupid question...How do you set the timing? My Blower Crank hub as no index or timing marks? I guess I could use some math and make up a timing tape based on the circumference of the hub. Any thoughts?

[Chryco Psycho]

I have not used a balancer on blown engines either with no problems
I don`t use a timing light , just adjust timing by ear

[heminut]

You might check with BDS on the timing thing. I've seen thin aluminum plates that fit between the crank hub and the pulleys that have the timing marks engraved on them, but don't know who makes them.

[moper]

 

[SalTy71CuDa]