Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Fuidamper? Worth it or not?

[RSchwarzli]

So, for a 500 hp truck (the PDR Towing Twins 97 12V Crew cab), is a Fluidamper worth it? What are they really doing? It says that it will extend the life of the bearings, but I am sure the motor will be apart before there is a bearing issue. Does it do anything else? Does it eliminate the vibration? I know on gassers they seem to make a differance, but on a Cummins??



Thought? Opinions? Worth buying? Do you feel a differance when installed?



As for truck use, almost all highway driving while towing 10,000-20,000 pounds.



Thanks!



Robert

 

[Hammer]

There is a ton of reading on them here if you search them. I can honestly say it was well worth the money in my opinion. Mine has been on now for a while and it has helped alot. It does help with vibration and even smooths out the big double disc clutches some. Its a worthy addition to your truck if your thinking about it... ... Andy

 

[Shadrach]

I went a different choice. I will be using a viscous damper from a 230hp 6BTAA Cummins. They used them in some Freightliners in the mid 90's. To buy it new from Cummins would cost more than a Fluidamper, but I got a super deal. I had to not only change the damper but needed a separate pulley, a spacer and 4 longer bolts. According to Cummins the RPM range is higher. Unlike the rubber stock damper/pulley it will be smother running and therefore "help extend the life of my engine". If anyone want the p/n's I can supply them. FWIW It will make the engine about 3/4" longer in the nose. Shadrach

 

[RSchwarzli]

Thanks for the feedback guys!



Shadrach - Thanks also for the measurements as well! Unfortunetally that also just made it unuseable with my current setup.



I have brackets and such in that area.



If anyone else has more thought, I am all ears!!Oo.



Robert

 

[SierraRam]

I researched this quite abit and finally purchased the fluid damper. Waiting for the UPS man to come. I have read nothing but positive results and I too am running a DD clutch. As soon as I have it installed I will give you my impression.

 

[RSchwarzli]

Thats awesome! I look forward to it! Oo.



Robert

 

[Shadrach]

Don't forget to read up on "pinning" the Fluidamper. Shadrach

 

[RSchwarzli]

Never heard of pinning it.



Guess I am gonna have to do some reading! :-laf



Robert

 

[hsmith]

Isn't that mainly for high rpm engines? I read where it is not necessary unless you intend to run over 3k. I did not pin mine, but maybe I should.

 

[12V Ford]

I have one on my truck. I couldn't tell much of a difference, but I'm sure it helps with the vibrations.