CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => Originality => Topic started by: dans67camaro on June 22, 2007, 01:03:46 AM

Title: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: dans67camaro on June 22, 2007, 01:03:46 AM
Does anyone know if there is a specification regarding the alignment of the harmonic balancer, water pump and alternator pulleys? I have a 67 350 SS, no a.i.r., no a/c, no power steering and no fan clutch. Matching number engine and parts when assembled has the water pump pulley about 3/16 inch forward of the harmonic balancer pulley. Also, the alternator pulley is rearward of the other two by about 1/4 inch. Although the belt can be installed normally and looks like it would work, it just does't look right. Seems like they should all be aligned with-in the same plane by about an 1/8th or less. Anyone have any thoughts????/ Thanks - Dan
Title: Re: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: rat pack on June 22, 2007, 01:05:15 PM
Dan, they should be almost "dead on" in alignment with each other. DId everything align before the restoration? If so, then have you replaced any of the items that affect the alignment of the pulleys:  water pump or balancer?  Even though your engine requires a short water pump, there are differences in the hub height (or length) which could cause it not to align with the crank pulley, that is if you bought a new one from a local parts store. This is something I have run into over the years when having a problem with pulley alignment as those are usually found to be wrong.

As for the alternator alignment, that is pretty severe, almost a belt width. Can you post a picture showing how everything is mounted? That might help to see if there is anything possibly mounted incorrectly, or even possibly a bent bracket. There is an unrestored car here locally that I can look at tomorrow that would be the same as yours to see how it all goes together. The only difference is I think he has power steering, which really be that much different other than the crank pulley..............RatPack......................
Title: Re: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: RobF on June 22, 2007, 01:21:26 PM
I had the same problem with a replacement water pump (alternator alignment was fine). I took the pump apart and used a hyd press to move the pully hub an 1/8' or so.
Title: Re: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: RobF on June 22, 2007, 01:23:38 PM
Correction - I moved the pulley hub 1/8" (not foot!!)
Title: Re: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: rich69rs on June 22, 2007, 11:52:54 PM
Had the same problem a few years ago with a replacement pump for my '66 Chevelle.  Take the back cover off and you can push on the impeller with a press and move the shaft out so that you properly space the pulley.  Definitely want to be within 1/32" max and as close to dead on as possible.  Kind of similar to what you get with repro sheet metal - have to massage it a little.

Good luck,

Richard
Title: Re: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: dans67camaro on June 25, 2007, 11:18:01 AM
Thanks.... The water pump has been rebuilt, so that probably needs to be adjusted. As for the alternator, I believe the bracket (aftermarket) is wrong! Since I have two, I can cut and weld to properly locate the alternator pulley. Dan  :)
Title: Re: Engine Pulley Alignment
Post by: Flowjoe on July 17, 2007, 05:42:24 AM
Correction - I moved the pulley hub 1/8" (not foot!!)
TEE-HEE....like the reverse of Spinal Taps Stonehenge