Re: 81 Glastron SX-190 Transom and Engine- PICS Galore Update 11-8
I forgot all about the timing issue. Yes from my experience most harmonic balancers from the 80's are year specific. They will work just as yours is even though they are incorrect but many of them were specific for the particular year engine. Some even ask things such as which side the power steering pump is on or which side the alternator is on. You wouldnt think the alternator would have much to do with it but on some engines it is how they determine the correct balancer. However, you have got to be close in order to have no spark knock or pinging and at the same time have the engine running good without overheating, burning too much fuel, or being hard to start because of incorrect timing. Personally if it were me and I had it set just as you say you have, Id run it. If nothing else, call around and see if you can find someone who can set the timing without the pointer. Sometimes these pointers get broke off for some reason or another and you have to go by other means to get the timing set correctly. Worst case scenario, try to find the opposite timing cover or the balancer that is marked the other way. I have had to set the timing on many vehicles without even using a timing light so I know it can be done without the light or with an incorrectly marked balancer. Bottom line, it comes down to how you feel. You are the one who has the money tied up in the engine, take the route that makes you feel safe about how the timing is set.
And just see what she can do all out!
