Harmonic balancer/bolt grip puller

[zoso]

I'm looking to get one of these for removing flywheels on outboards and such, and was wondering what you all recommend. I like quality tools, but I'm not sure how much I'll gain by spending more on an item like this.

Would you go with a set like this off e-bay http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...&group_ID=1237&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

or go with a cheaper one like these
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00947626000P?keyword=balancer+puller

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SRDS2/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[ike]

i have an OEM brand one that i bought from Pep Boys. it is identical, to my eyes, as the craftsman one.

i would look for one with a case, if i were going to buy one again. the OEM and Craftsman one both just come in a blister pack. mine is now stored in a big ziplock bag so that i don't lose all the bolts. i would much rather have it all in a decent case.

 

[mikevango]

i have the craftsman one. i have pulled many balancers off with it. it works fine but i did bend one of the bolts somehow. can't remember how, probably improper use. i had it for 15 or so years.

 

[crewchief888]

i have an old KD brand like that one. it's been around for 30 years or so.
most of my larger pullers are OTC

 

[Merkava_4]

The deciding factor for me would be which set I could get with a nice blow molded plastic case...

 

[plinker]

The Napa puller set I have is pretty nice, even comes with a blow molded case.

 

[bgott]

The cheaper ones are a hair smaller than the tool truck pullers. I have a cheap one that worked great, I ended up having to supplement it with a pawn shop Mac puller because I would occasionally run into dampers that had a wider bolt pattern.

 

[crewchief888]

i picked up a couple of stack on brand power tool cases at meijers for loose tools that didnt have cases. i keep my DVM & test leads, my jumper harnesses, and sensor bypass boxes in one in my service truck.
we used to keep oue 2 way radios in one, chargers & a terminal strip in another one in the race trailer. i used a plastic file folder box to store headsets & radio belts in.

total cost for all the strage boxes was around $20..

 

[mrshaun]

you can get the replacement bolt kits pretty easy from snap on. I keep two of these on the truck at most times. they are fast movers

 

[Fubar]

Buy a good one. You'll find out why the first time you get a balancer that's stuck..

 

[Fedwrench]

I would get this one.http://www.tooltopia.com/kd-tools-41600.aspx

Which ever one you buy, lube the threaded shaft prior to use.