the harmonic balancer is vibrating perpendicular to the way its spinning
probably by 1/4 inch

do I need a new harmnic balancer, or is it possible i bent something at the
drag strip

Please help

 

Yes you will need a new balancer b/c most likely the rubber between the outside track and the pulley has been worn out. However I haven't found a kit to remove the hub b/c the ones at parts stores don't have the proper bolts. I tried a 6" 3-jaw puller, but I can't seem to fit it between the spokes.

 

I agree your balancer has failed.

I have pulled three LT1 hubs using a plain old Sears Craftsman Harmonic Balancer puller. I went to ACE and I bought a set of bolts/and washers that I place through the puller and tighten into the hub. I have a 1/4 drive extension that I place into the crank and the hubs have come right out with no drama. (The hole in the hub is too small for a puller to fit through hence the extension).

 

Go ahead and replace it because in the next few drives it will eat you belt. I hate when i can talk from experience

 

what brand/type did you choose to replace your OE one?

Gm part#12551138 is about 180 at gmpartsdirect
ORiley and Autozone have DORMAN lt1 balancer for $65
Oriley and Autozone can special order PIONEER lt1 balancers for around $67


If I use a stock balancer, do I need to replace the hub too?

 

hub does not need replaced