ANOTHER DOWEL PULLER We were trying to remove the alignment dowels from some “H” beam rods and our usual method of using a head dowel puller wasn’t working on the stubborn ones. I was trying to figure out a more precision collet set to use when I decided that my mill...

RESIZE CRACKED RODS? YES YOU CAN There is a way to recondition the so-called “cracked” rods, or powdered metal connecting rods. I use a media made of coal slag that can be found at most home improvement stores. You have to blast the 4 mating surfaces on the rod and...

EASY PARTING LINE DEBURRING When I torque & check connecting rods for size, the surface with the bolt is hard to deburr first. I had some files drilled with carbide bits to .010” over 3/8”, 7/16” & 1/2”. Now it’s an easy task to deburr and looks great. Randy Torvinen...

Connecting Rod Pin Bore Repair Ever need to repair a Ford, Chrysler or any other full-floating connecting rod where the pin bore is now larger than the O.D. of your new bushings? I use acid-core solder as a filler and bonding agent. Heat your connecting rod’s small...

Save The Piston, Remove The Pins Before removing press-fit pistons that we plan on reusing, we immerse the piston in a coffee can of motor oil. You only need enough oil to submerge the piston. We use synthetic oil for the EP and high temperature qualities. We then...

Shoe Repair When my CR honing shoes get worn funny, I set up the mandril in my lathe and turn them down to straighten them out. I also cut a couple grooves on the ends. This helps to keep the shoes straight while honing. I’ll even turn new shoes to get them in line...