The difference in price of the balancers is due to the type of balancers.......regular solid steel (stock) and the fluid type (Fluidampr, CAT, etc....). There are others available, but unless your priority is passing strict NHRA tech or leaving no stone unturned (regardless of the cost), then I figured you wouldn't be interested.
The difference in the flexplates is the little things (resistance to deflection, attention to detail, metals used, proper balancing, etc....). None of this may matter to you (it didn't to me), so I listed both.
FWIW, there have been lots of debates over the pros/cons of the fluid type balancers, so brush up on them before making a decision. You always find debates when new products come out (like the pros/cons of Total Seal rings, etc....), but making your own decision (based on preference, budget, etc....) will always be best.
IMO, buying a quality stock piece can, often times, be as good a decision as going with a quality aftermarket piece. There are some things that are unquestionable (better rods, better pistons, better gaskets, etc....), but on a lot of things (balancers, flexplates, etc....), the jury is still out. My point.....price doesn't always reflect what's best (even in the world of hot rod parts).
Hood
