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...
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...
BOLTS AS HANDLES Sometimes, the simplest thing can become the perfect tool. To properly install a camshaft doesn’t need an expensive special tool. A long bolt or 2 can make a great camshaft installation tool. Stack a pile of fender washers on your bolt for a...
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...
CAM BINDING SOLUTION I use a drill bit extension and a variety of abrasive flap wheels to clean up cam bores and cam bearings to help make more clearance for those camshafts that will not fit or turn. A quick pass through the bores is all it takes. Steve Potz Steve’s...
CART HEIGHT=BENCH HEIGHT=HAPPY BACKS In our shop we seem to constantly be moving cylinder heads around. First from arrival at the door to a tear down bench, then to the jet wash, to a storage shelf, to benches to be worked on and then to benches to be assembled. We...