Back when most of the roads were Dusty. Or if you live in a dry dusty area. If I had a damper that accepted one I would use it and have used them whenever possible. Just extra protection from dust.IMO, it's not needed for any application.
It was installed from the factory for a reason. It helps in protecting the seal from debris. it can also wick up any “slight” oil weepage (if the seal actually leaks it will load up and may eventually stretch out, elongate) If you have the oem balancer that has the stamped disc/shield use it. The only “nay” I’ve ever actually experienced (on a high mileage and aged 78 360) is when you have a leaking seal and that felt gets soaked so much with oil that it stretched out from spinning as to be useless.From a Fel-Pro engine gasket kit.
Any good/bad experiences using this dealie with or without?
Use or useless?
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Most modern engines are aluminum and plastic. They are now built to throw away.With today's seal technology, there's no need for a felt diaper. If the seals leaking, you need to replace it. The felt isn't going to hold anything in. I only remember seeing those when pulling apart a mid 60's or earlier engine. What modern engine uses one?