BROWSE BY CATEGORY

BROWSE ALL SHOP SOLUTIONS

THE SHARPIE STRIKES AGAIN

THE SHARPIE STRIKES AGAIN

When I'm boring a block, I draw a little line on the micrometer with a felt tip, once it's set. This way I can see at a glance that I haven't inadvertently loosened the lock screw and/or changed the setting. You don't really have to focus in on the setting each time,...

read more
CAM PLATE DRILL GUIDE

CAM PLATE DRILL GUIDE

In order to correctly locate and drill a small block Chevy block for an O.E. cam thrust plate, we made a jig from an aluminum leaf spring bushing. It locates in the cam bearing bore, and the top is machined for the I.D. of the thrust plate. It works like a charm! Rich...

read more
CHUCK UP A PAINT PEN

CHUCK UP A PAINT PEN

When I’m balancing a crank and need to add Mallory-metal, I chuck a marker or paint pen into the drill and peck a mark on the counterweight. Once I remove the crank to go to the mill to drill through the side, I have a nice reference for where to center the hole. Big...

read more
A LITTLE DAB

A LITTLE DAB

It is good practice to lube up the main cap registers on aluminum blocks before seating the main caps. I have noticed the registers will peel aluminum when driving a steel main cap into place. Applying a thin layer of high-pressure grease to the cap and block will...

read more
GASKET SEALER VS. MAKER

GASKET SEALER VS. MAKER

When I'm installing intakes using a composition gasket, I lightly coat the inside of the water ports with RTV gasket sealer. This prevents the coolant from soaking into the gasket and leaking over time. I use gasket sealant instead of gasket maker to allow the...

read more
MAGNETIC BASE WORK HOLDER

MAGNETIC BASE WORK HOLDER

You can use a magnetic base from a dial indicator stand to hold your work while grinding parts like thin cover plates on a disc sander. It saves your fingertips. Tom Nichols Automotive Machine & Supply, Inc Cleburne, TX

read more