Quick answer

A balance shaft eliminator kit for the H22A4 VTEC does not magically free horsepower or ruin drivability. It blocks the balance shaft bearings to raise oil pressure and removes the shafts, but it comes with tradeoffs like increased vibration and installation complexity. The Precision Works kit uses billet aluminum parts and retains the OEM oil pump, but you must follow instructions carefully.

Why myths about balance shaft removal persist

Balance shaft eliminator kits are often discussed in forums with conflicting claims. Some say removal is a must for oil pressure, others warn of unbearable vibration. The truth lies in understanding what the kit actually does: it blocks the balance shaft bearing oil feed to increase oil pressure and removes the shafts. This can benefit high-RPM engines but also changes the engine's vibration characteristics. The Precision Works kit for H22A4 VTEC includes billet aluminum block-off plate, crankshaft spacer, and oil pump plugs, and it works with the OEM oil pump. Installation instructions are not included, so you'll need to rely on external resources like the referenced YouTube video.

The vibration tradeoff: what to really expect

One common myth is that removing balance shafts causes no noticeable vibration. In reality, balance shafts are there to cancel secondary vibrations inherent in large four-cylinder engines. Removing them will increase vibration, especially at certain RPMs. However, many enthusiasts find it acceptable for a performance build. The key is to set expectations: if your H22A4 is a daily driver, you may notice more cabin vibration. For a track car, it's often a worthwhile compromise. The Precision Works kit does not include dampeners or mounts to mitigate this, so plan accordingly.

Oil pressure gains: separating fact from hype

Another myth is that simply removing the balance shafts increases oil pressure. Actually, the pressure increase comes from blocking the balance shaft bearing oil feed, which prevents oil from escaping through those bearings. The Precision Works kit includes billet aluminum plugs for the oil pump and a block-off plate to achieve this. However, the kit retains the OEM oil pump, so the pressure gain is moderate, not extreme. It's important to note that installation instructions are not included, so improper installation could lead to oil leaks or low pressure. Always verify oil pressure after installation.

Myths vs. verdicts

  • Myth: Removing balance shafts always increases oil pressure significantly.: Verdict: Partly true. The Precision Works kit blocks the balance shaft bearing oil feed, which can raise oil pressure, but the OEM oil pump remains, so gains are moderate. Installation without instructions can negate benefits. Check oil pressure after install to confirm gains.
  • Myth: Balance shaft removal causes no noticeable vibration.: Verdict: False. Removing balance shafts increases vibration, especially in the H22A4. The kit does not include vibration dampeners, so expect more cabin vibration, particularly at idle and low RPM. Decide if increased vibration is acceptable for your use case.
  • Myth: The kit includes detailed installation instructions.: Verdict: False. The Precision Works kit does not include installation instructions. You must rely on external resources like the referenced YouTube video. Proper installation is critical for oil pressure and reliability. Watch the recommended video before starting.
  • Myth: You need to remove the balance shaft bearings to install the kit.: Verdict: False. The kit blocks the oil feed to the bearings without removing them, using a billet aluminum block-off plate. This simplifies installation compared to full bearing removal. No need to pull the bearings; the plate blocks oil flow.

Product facts

  • Precision Works Balance Shaft Eliminator Kit H-Series H22A4 VTEC: Precision Works Balance Shaft Eliminator Kit includes billet aluminum block-off plate, crankshaft spacer, and oil pump plugs. These components block oil feed to balance shaft bearings, increasing oil pressure without removing the bearings.

    Precision Works Balance Shaft Eliminator Kit H-Series H22A4 VTEC

    Precision Works Balance Shaft Eliminator Kit H-Series H22A4 VTEC

  • Precision Works Balance Shaft Eliminator Kit H-Series H22A4 VTEC: The kit is designed for H22A4, H22A7, F22, H23 VTEC, and F20B engines and uses the OEM oil pump. It fits multiple H-series engines but retains the stock oil pump, so pressure gains are moderate and depend on proper installation.