by Donnie Hurt | Oct 1, 2017 | CYLINDER HEADS
SURFACE PLATE ADAPTER Some cylinder heads, like small block Mopars, have the intake manifold bolt holes at a slight angle from the manifold flange. This makes it hard to mount on our surfacing machine milling plate because, when you tighten up the mounting studs...
by Donnie Hurt | Oct 1, 2017 | CRANKSHAFTS & CONNECTING RODS
GEN III VS. GEN IV CONNECTING RODS The early Gen-3 press-fit connecting rod was replaced by the Gen-4 free-floating piston pin with rod bushings. Some shops try to upgrade Gen-3 engines by substituting Gen-4 pistons, and keeping the earlier rods. You need to be aware...
by Donnie Hurt | Oct 1, 2017 | TOOLING
QUARTER-TO-HALF GAUGE FULL I picked up a Machinists’ Plug Gauge Set, in .250”-.500”, for scrap value due to its age. The uses are endless for the engine builder. Here are a few of mine: 1.) I use these as checking standards, or for set- ting a micrometer. 2.) They are...
by Donnie Hurt | Sep 1, 2017 | CAMSHAFTS & VALVE TRAIN
TOP 10 CAM FAILURE CULPRITS 1) COIL BIND-when a spring compresses solid before or during full camshaft lift. 2) RETAINER TO SEAL BIND-the distance from the top of the valve seal to the bottom of the retainer must be greater than the valve’s lift. 3) IMPROPER VALVE...
by Donnie Hurt | Sep 1, 2017 | TOOLING
DON’T LEAVE ME HANGING When I build big cubic inch engines, I never leave all that weight hanging from a few bellhousing bolts. A screw jack under the front oil pan takes a lot of stress off of the engine stand. Place a piece of wood or heavy cardboard on top of the...
