I don't see how there's an advantage of purchasing the new aluminum pulley vs. the older steel unit. Other than weight. Is weight really that important considering it's the crank pulley that actually drives the SC pulley. I have a hard time believing that there would be greater resistance in turning a steel pulley than the aluminum pulley. It would seem to me that the steel pulley would be more reliable and less susceptible to expansion and contraction. Any thoughts?

 

I think code3 gave away with the aluminum pulley due to reliability and build quality issues

 

aluminum pulley is lighter weight, thus less overall rotating mass that has to be driven and there will be less parasitic loss. therefore, you will see a little more power with the lighter weight aluminum pulley than with the steel one

 

Yes, I remember a post from Brandon to that affect, but I don't remember where it is off the top of my head.

The aluminum pulley was a good idea, as less rotational mass means more power going to the wheels, but it's not significant enough to tolerate the build issues.

 

I installed the aluminum pulley yesterday. The spacing between the clutch and pulley in not uniform but isn't causing any problems so far. The aluminum pulley is half the weight or lighter than the stock one and the belt is not slipping that I can tell. I saw 16.5 PSI on my data logging honeymoon today which I believe is about right. Aluminum was a good idea that went wrong for a lot of buyers. So far I'm good, but if I encounter a problem I'll be sure to let everyone know.

Les