The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 59’ 235 Harmonic Balancer

The whole fan belt setup on this truck is screwed up. It started when they installed the 235. Butchering the radiator support, the hood latch panel and the lower splash pan to move the radiator forward for clearance. They further complicated the issues when they added the alternator. They mounted the alternator with a threaded rod and nuts without a sleeve so it has bent under the strain. They extended the adjustment arm by cutting it in half and adding two stacked thin pieces of flat stock and a couple of bolts and nuts. In addition, none of the pulleys are in alignment. Im not even sure if the belt is correct as it measures 7/16”.

I had planned to straighten out this mess but I thought I had a little more time. I plan on buying the alternator conversion brackets which will address the alternator mounting issues, but I do have some other questions

I know that in 1952 they used a 5/8” v-belt and I assume the 216 harmonic balancer from 1952 will fit my 59 235. Where can I get a new 5/8” pulley for the alternator and do I match the existing OD of the pulley?

I plan on buying the adaptor plate to relocate the 216 water pump. In reference to pulley alignment, how do you compensate for the thickness of the adaptor plate.

And finally, where would be a good source for buying a Harmonic Balancer?