I'm thinking about upgradeing mine. They have a super charger version that is to be used with a key'd crank. How would one key the crank without pulling the crank out of the motor? What tool would you use?
Another question...aside from the bolt coming loose has anyone had the stock dampner fail?
1. We have run ATI's with many cars, be it forced induction or not. Very high quality pieces.
2. We generally do not run the "Blower Drive" ATI's. We use the NA version, and add the keyways via EDM machining. If needed for a Blower car, we change the inner threads from 5/16 to the larger blower drive 3/8 size. This is more expensive, but I have never liked the multi-piece + spacer configuration of the Blower Drive assembly, and it also gives us the ability to place the keyways in any position, count, or configuration we want to.
3. There is a way to key a crank with it in the block, though it requires a lot of specialized tooling to get it done. Your best bet would be to approach a local machine shop, preferable one who specializes in making tools, and tell them your exact issue. They should be able to set you up with a guide and cutter assembly that can cut a keyway from the side of the crank (bottom of the car). It will likely require removing the timing cover and oil pan, but thats a hell of a lot easier than pulling the crank to do it. I have considered producing these tools, though it has a limited application as most cars we put blowers on have the engine out anyway, and the cars which are getting basic Paxton setups arent really at the limit of a pinning setup yet. It also has a fairly high level of possible damage from misuse, and a high price tag to boot... not an easy sell.
4. Yes, the stock balancer can separate at the damper "ring" section that separates the inner and outer damper- It will create quite a mess if it gets loose at high RPM. We have also seen one damper crack at the crank hub, popped about 1/3 of the hub off at the snout/damper pressed area.
