Made thread in forced induction, but not getting any response. Hope I can find some assistance here.


Keep in mind I'm new to LT1's...... The book shows the damper coming right off after the removal of the 3 bolts. In looking at the ATI damper it appears I will need a standard balancer puller to remove, is this correct??

Also, I'm under the impression this is a NON keyed damper. My plans are to remove damper & distributor to repair leaking seals. Are there any precautions I need to do as far as ignition timing goes?? Very familiar with older version TDC method when reinstalling distributor, but what about this front mount distributor stayle?? Does it matter what position the damper goes bak on??

Thanks for the input!!

 

Unless the forced induction version is different, the ATI damper is a two piece unit. The outer shell will come off if you remove the six countersunk Torx fasteners that hold it to the hub but that's not necessary in order to remove the whole unit. The hub (or the whole unit) will come off after you remove the large crankshaft bolt and give it a tug with a regular three-bolt puller. If you have an unkeyed crankshaft, the damper plays no part in setting or checking the timing. the Optispark is attached to the front cover with three bolts. It should come out easily when those three bolts are removed, the vacuum hoses removed, and the wiring has been unplugged. On a '96 LT1, the Optispark will only slide back onto the end of the camshaft one way without forcing it. Look at the back carefully when it comes off and you'll be able to see the correct slot for fitting to the cam pin. When it is aligned correctly, the timing will be right. The damper can go back in any position and it won't affect the timing.

Good luck,

c

 

The ATI has provisions for a crank key. If you are running a blower, it wouldn't make any sense not to install a key. In fact, some people running high boost run dual keys to prevent breaking the hub at high loads. Or, there is apparently a heavier hub made for blower applications.

A stock LT1 damper is as described above - 2-piece. The stock hub does not have a key, and it an interference fit. The ATI and the stock damper can not be compared as to installation and removal methods.