I installed an 85 z28 305 engine in my camaro.
My question is, is there a difference in balancers?
I bought a chrome timing cover, and a chrome timing tab, and I cannot for the life of me find TDC on this setup without pulling the #1 plug and using a straw to feel TDC.
Is there another balancer I can use? because I would really like to use a timing light on it.
I found TDC to be at the 12 oclock position on this balancer.
Thanks for any replies in advance.

Many late model engines (particularly 305s, but not always) have the timing mark on the balancer line up in the 12:00 position when #1 is at true TDC. They were designed to be used with a timing cover that has the timing marks tab welded onto it's face.

You have a couple choices-

1. Scribe a new TDC line onto your balancer to line up with your aftermarket (1:30 position) timing tab.

2. Put a timing chain cover on the motor to match the 12:00 balancer.

3. Put a different balancer on to line up with your 1:30 timing tab. An application example would be for a 1987 350 L-98 TPI engine- that's got it over in the 1:30 position but is still the same diameter as your existing balancer (6-3/4").