MINI PROTRACTOR Sometimes a machinist's protractor is too cumbersome in cramped spaces to compare angled surfaces on a part. A feeler gauge set works very well as a protractor in tight spots. Modify the gauge by adding a screw and nut to lock it in position. Tom...
END PLAY Setting crankshaft end play on engines that you do frequently can be made easy and save time. If you do enough engines, you will always find yourself lapping thrust bearings to get desired end play. Start recording the width of thrust bearings after you have...
SHIM IT I make a spacer to set in the recess of my Height Mics for small retainers. I use two .060" and one .030" spring shims and I can use it on SB Chevy heads and others with small diameter springs. The A & B105 work for SB Chevy. Randy Torvinen Torvinen's...
HEAVY DUTY FRONT CAP For some extra strength on the front main bearing on several different engine platforms, you can narrow up a beefier 4-bolt cap to fit the 2-bolt register. If the radial depth is close enough to be able to “hone-in”, you often don’t even need to...
HOW BIG IS YOUR WARRANTY "90-DAY WARRANTY"... "1-YEAR WARRANTY"... "LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY"... Many shop owners hand write the coverage on the customer's invoice. But what does it cover? Does this protect your shop? A written warranty provides benefits for you and...
CNC FEED & FEED CHART Shops with CNC mills often need to do a "quick" task, such as drilling a few holes, or taking a cut along one axis, etc. this tip discusses 3 methods to do so. Most machines have a pendant or hand wheels the operator can use to move the tool...