454 Balance weights?

[00fxd]

There is a manufacturer of a bolt on balance weight that adapts the neutral balance flywheel [manual shift] to work on a 454 and another to work on a sb400. Has anyone used these or know anyone that has? Opinions?

[norvalwilhelm]

Yes there are bolt on weights for the 454 and the 400 but you can take a neutral balanced 427 flywheel and have it lightened on one side for the 454. I bought a steel flywheel and had that done.
As for the bolt on weights I buy parts from a stock car company and in their catalogue they have these weights. It is a offset weight on a plate that gets bolted between the engine and flywheel.
I could get the name off the catalogue and post it if you want. The catalogue is at home.

[00fxd]

Thanks norval; It would cost a lot to balance the 427 flywheel. I actually thought you had to add weight [mallory metal, expensive]. I'm kinda hopin' this weight idea works o.k. and not be too hokey. Sounds alright for a street engine, but I would like to hear some actual use experiences or some professional opinions before I go for it. Yes, I would like you to find out for me the name of catalogue if you would.
Thanks, Frank.

[norvalwilhelm]

Why does it cost so much to make a neutral balanced flywheel into a offset balanced 454 flywheel? All it takes is about 20 shallow holes drilled to lighten up one side. I have done this myself at home on the work bench by having a stock 454 ring gear and a small bearing and adaptor clamped to the bench.
You put the stock 454 ring gear on the adaptor on the bench and mark where the weight should go then transfer this location to the neutral flywheel and start drilling exactly opposite this location.
With careful checking you can get the flywheel to perfectly match the ring gear or flex plate.
Also any balance shop should be able to do this easily
No metal added just removed.
I will post the company tomorrow morning that sells offset weights for 454's and 400's.

[00fxd]

Thanks again norval. Like I said, I thought you had to add metal, but your method is something I will definately look into.

[norvalwilhelm]

Balance plates to use a normal neutral flywheel on a 400 or 454 are sold by Coleman Machine Inc. N -1597 US-41, Menominee, Mi 49858. Phone 906-863-7883. Part No for the 454 is 399-101 cost $24.25.
This company stocks part for Nascar and they have a very interesting catalogue of race parts.
This plate sandwiches between the crank and flywheel. It is a precision fit and can only go on one way . It is a offset weight.
Good luck but I still would go with a lightened 427 flywheel

[00fxd]

Thanks again norval. I've now got all the info I need to make my choice.
Frank.