My name is Cameron and I just bought a 88' Mazda B2600 4x4 for $400. It only has 82,000 mi. on it, but I've had to rebuild the engine. Does anyone know the pros and cons of the balance shaft elimination kit ?

 

Slightly, and I mean slightly more power. You won't even notice the difference from the driver's seat. The engine will rock and shake more, the steering wheel will vibrate at idle and the dash will shake, and the engine mounts will likely fail prematurely.

If your are planning to use as a sometimes-needed pick-up, a daily driver or your only driver, I wouldn't do it. To be a civil vehicle anything over a 2.0L 4-cyl needs a balance shaft. The uneven nature of 4-cylinder engines dictates it.

If you're building a track truck, then by all means, get the kit. Every little bit helps in racing.

 

Is there any way to get a harmonic balancer for this 88' 2.6 ? The problem I'm having is, I havent been able to find replacement shafts. The bearing surface was badly damaged when the 3 rod bearings spun and sent metal all through the engine.

 

I haven't looked because why would I need one, but I can't imagine they would be that hard to get??
If you haven't already, you might try Ford. Remember a Mazda B series pick up is essentially a Ford Ranger w/slightly different sheet metal and badges.

How about taking it to a machine shop that could either weld up the damage then remachine it, or sleeve it for you?

Failing that, you may have to get a donor engine from a junkyard. My guess is that they're cheap, and it sounds like you may find you will need other hard parts as well.