i have this thought of the why...

i think that most crankshafts will balance out with a neutral flywheel. so most flywheels remain neutral.

occasionally they get a driveshaft which for whatever reason will not balance neutrally. in that case they balance the flywheel along with the crank.

i remain extrememly impressed with the compactness of the 280e engine. one of the crank throws is so tight (with a removable weight) that there is only one position in which the crank can be to insert the piston with the rod attached.

it all looks a lot like a crank assembly on a 30 year newer design honda.

when you get down to the block you find it is really compace....unlike the massive 280 twincam head.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.