Why Are There 3 Sets of Numbers on My Balancer on my SBF?

Why Are There 3 Sets of Numbers?

Our SBF balancers are indexed for the 1984-1995 Ford 5.0 H.O. application. Ford used different timing pointer locations depending on the front cover, accessory drive, and water pump configuration. To accommodate these variations, the balancer is marked with three timing scales.

This allows the balancer to be used with both factory and aftermarket setups without requiring a different balancer for each timing pointer location.

Timing Scale Locations

The three timing scales correspond to the following common applications:

2 O'Clock Scale → Standard rotation water pump applications (V-belt systems).
11 O'Clock Scale → Reverse rotation water pump applications (serpentine belt systems, including most 1984-1995 5.0 H.O. engines).
10 O'Clock Scale → Common aftermarket timing covers and pointer locations.

Which Timing Marks Should I Use?

Use the timing scale that aligns with the timing pointer installed on your engine.

For example:

Engine equipped with a standard rotation/V-belt water pump → Use the 2 o'clock scale.
Engine equipped with a reverse rotation/serpentine water pump → Use the 11 o'clock scale.
Engine equipped with an aftermarket timing cover and pointer near the 10 o'clock position → Use the 10 o'clock scale.

If you're unsure which scale is correct, locate the timing pointer and use the set of numbers directly in line with it.

Common Questions

Is my balancer marked incorrectly?

No. Multiple timing scales are intentionally included to support the various timing pointer locations found on Small Block Ford engines.

Can I use any set of numbers?

No. Only the timing scale that corresponds to your timing pointer location should be used when setting ignition timing.

Why is there a scale I don't use?

The additional scales are provided so the balancer can be used across multiple SBF front cover, timing pointer, and water pump configurations.

Resolution

The three sets of numbers are three separate timing scales. Use the scale that matches your timing pointer location:

2 O'Clock → Standard rotation water pump
11 O'Clock → Reverse rotation water pump (1984-1995 5.0 H.O. serpentine)
10 O'Clock → Aftermarket timing cover/pointer locations

The extra markings are normal and do not indicate a defect or improperly manufactured balancer.

Why Are There 3 Sets of Numbers on My Balancer on my SBF?

Overview Customers may notice three different sets of numbers printed or engraved on their harmonic balancer and wonder which number is correct for timing. This is normal and does not indicate a problem with the balancer.