CHAMFER REMOVAL Shallow head fasteners like flywheel bolts can be a challenge to remove without rounding the head off. I place a socket in my metal lathe and face it flat to eliminate the chamfer. I get full contact with the fastener and fewer stripped heads.  Dave...

HANDY HOLE TRANSFER PUNCHES When fabricating gaskets, exhaust flanges, etc. , a set of hole transfer punches can make the job easier. However if you do not have transfer punches, or if they're always at the other end of the shop, this little trick comes in handy. Set...

CHALK UP ANOTHER TIP To prevent a clogged file from marring your work, try filling the file's teeth with chalk. Children's sidewalk chalk works well for this. Should the file become clogged, a length of 3/8" or 1/2" copper tubing, with one end flattened, will quickly...

KEEP IT CLEAN On the line honing machine, the mandrel rest and tank sides can end up becoming a real mess, especially after the job while the mandrel drains off. I took a large cup freeze plug and drilled some drain holes in it. I screwed this to the metal screen...

DAS ARNOLD GAUGE It is a common thing with Arnold Gauge calipers to have the original set screws strip out. Many try welding the holes shut or drilling a new hole. We have found that by simply re-tapping the hole for a 3mm set screw it will make it like new. Adney...

MODIFIED VALVE SPRING COMPRESSORS About twenty years ago cam lifts and valve spring pressures were on the increase. Today, 1000 lbs open pressure is not unheard of. This increases taxation of many existing valve spring compressors and their tooling. Shown are some of...