Useless CAT Industries SFI Harmonic Balancer "paper weight"

[basketcase0302]

Guys (and gals),
I feel our members here need to know this information to save them some grief. It's not "vendor feedback" but really more "manufacturer feedback". Here's the post last week from my build thread:

I also ran into yet another issue...I had bought a fluid balancer several years ago for the 302, (me being the "thrifty shopper" got it for maybe half of what one should cost).
Wrong...
The fluid balancer is made (or sold) by these folks:
http://www.catpep.com/
It is a Model# HBF-302 and I can't seem to find any bolt that firmly screws into the balancer to hold my bottom pulley! I've tried everything and no bolt (metric or SAE seems to fit it)!
Here's the email I sent to them this morning:

Hi,

I purchased one of your CAT harmonic balancers (fluid balancer type) several years ago. I've finally been able to start my engine assembly and can't seem to find the correct size bolts to bolt my bottom pulley to the balancer. The model is HBF-302.

I've tried 3/8" NF (which seems way too loose) / 1/2" (is too big) / M10 (too small) and M12 (wrong pitch).

Can you please advise me on the correct bolt size?

Sincerely,

Jeff xxxxxxxx
Bartow, Florida

Well it's almost been a week since my email, and no response. And I honestly don't believe that I will get a response when I see issues with the company like this:
http://www.gtr.co.uk/forum/74699-my-new ... ods-2.html

Here's their installation instructions for my damper: http://www.catpep.com/installation/damp ... damper.htm

Save yourself some trouble! If you're remotely considering a "CAT Industries" or CAL brand part (they make a lot of engine parts also). Don't waste your money! It's all imported junk sold as "high end" racing parts.

I now have a $150.00 paper weight!
And still need a harmonic balancer for my SBF...

[bb429power]

Eagle cranks do the same thing. Have them cast in China, bring them to the U.S, then polish the journals down really quick. If you buy one, then you will want to mic. it since they end up wearing like an hourglass. *Stupidly* Its just more room for the oil and you can get more oil in there. I always thought that they were supposed to be a top brand.