At this point, I would put a new balancer on it. Even if that turns out not to be the problem, at least you'll eliminate it.

 

+1


George

 

Here is the new-to-old balancer comparison. As you can see, the old one is way off. I feel someone already knew this, and that's why the distributor was set a tooth off. Anyway, I installed new balancer, set #1 to TDC with the best technique I have available. I reinstalled distributor with the rotor pointed at the 6 stamped in the distributor. Motor ran, but not well at all. After fighting with Dash Commander to connect, I finally got a CMP/RETARD reading of 0.0. I don't know if it's an accurate reading or not. I have about had my fill of this vehicle as I'm thinking now that there's an internal engine issue. There's a knock coming from around below the intake and possibly another one from lower end. It's a shame because the body, frame and interior are in great shape. I just am not looking for a project of this magnitude at this time.. I would like to thank everyone for their help in this endeavor, even if I do end up selling/scraping it.

 

I would say Dash Command is not connecting right. CMP Retard is probably off. It is never just 0.0 and stays there.

One mark on the balancer goes to 2 O'clock mark on the timing cover. The other goes to the mark around 5:30. That is TDC. Now look at where the rotor points. Because the engine runs - If it is pointing in the general vicinity (+/- 90 degrees of the 6), then you are on TDC #1 and can re-drop the distributor in again more correctly pointing towards the 6. If the rotor points away, then roll the motor over one revolution (lining up the marks again) and then drop the distributor in toward the 6. Chances are it will not go exactly to the 6, but should be close. Do this and take a photo of where your rotor is pointing at the end, and your marks on the balancer lined up with the timing cover. Then start it. Post photos.

 

these are the photos of the various marks.

 

I see zero issues with your timing marks and distributor setup. But still dont believe your cmp retard is exactly 0.0. Let me think on that a bit please. What does it run like with this setup? Ses light? Any codes? What about firing order? #3 and #1 have crossed positions on the distributor cap. Cap should have cylinder numbers by each terminal.

How does the dash command connect with another pre-2006 GM vehicle (same communication protocol)? Is it the same experience in connection? Any differences?

 

Last night I fought like crazy with Dash command. When it finally did connect I was having a hard time keeping the truck running. That's mostly why I second guessed the CMP reading. Tonight dash command wouldn't connect at all. I was gonna video it running, but the battery was dead (it also has a parasitic drain). Tomorrow is another chapter. I only get about an hour a day to work on it.

 

You need to try connecting on a different pre-2006 vehicle please. Can you connect to yours with KOEO? Were nearing the end of the possibilities. Stick with it when you have time! If you cant hook up to another vehicle, get a second BAFX and return your first one for a refund.

 

I tried it on my '96 Silverado, but had no luck. My other vehicle which I love is a '93 Dakota. The only other vehicle I have access to is a 2000 Explorer.

 

Oh, also is the BAFX supposed to have just a single red light?