In an externally balanced engine, how must the flywheel be installed?

In an externally balanced engine, the flywheel must be installed in one specific position to ensure proper balance and function of the engine. This is because externally balanced engines utilize specific weight distributions that are designed to counterbalance the inherent imbalances from the engine's rotating assembly.

When the flywheel is manufactured, it is often marked or keyed to indicate its correct orientation relative to the crankshaft. Installing the flywheel in the designated position ensures that the balance weights correspond with the location of other counterbalancing weights in the engine. If the flywheel is misaligned, it can result in excessive vibration, increased wear on engine components, and potential engine failure.

Maintaining the correct positioning of the flywheel is critical to the longevity and performance of the engine, making it essential to follow the manufacturer’s specifications during installation.