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PLUG SOCKET ON A DIET
Jan 5, 2026 | TOOLING
I have a “snakey” set of 1.75" headers on my hot rod truck. Several of the spark plugs are nearly impossible to access. I took an extra 5/8" socket, though the concept would work regardless what size hex. I trimmed it down In the lathe and drilled a 1/2" hole through...
NO SPILL LUBE CONTAINERS
Jan 1, 2026 | ASSEMBLY
We all use different assembly lubricants for different areas of our projects. Just have many pill bottles with a smaller hole in the cap to prevent spilling if it gets tipped over. Just fill the bottle with a smaller level of lube so it won't pour out the top hole if...
CHECK THE LEVEL
Jan 1, 2026 | LUBRICATION & COOLING
I've never trusted aftermarket pan volumes. If you are using the factory dipstick and tube, it’s not an issue, but with aftermarket or locking dipsticks, it's a guess at best. I set a factory oil pan and the aftermarket pan between milk crates. I put 4 qts. in the...
MAKE YOUR MARK
Dec 9, 2025 | ASSEMBLY
This is a customer’s balancer, though the procedure will work on a new one with the rubber bonded outer ring. I make a groove that runs down to the center hub. I use a chisel or a cut-off wheel, then I take a pick with yellow paint and mark the line. Should this...
EXTENDED COUNTERSINK
Dec 9, 2025 | OTHER SHOP WORK
Chamfering a bolt hole might require an extended reach countersink cutter. Here's how to quickly make an extension for the more common 1/4" shank cutters. First, drill a 15/32" x 1" deep hole in the end of a 6" length of 3/8" - 1/2" diameter shaft. Ream the hole with...
FILL BRASS TUBES
Dec 9, 2025 | CYLINDER HEADS
When surfacing heads that have had brass tubes installed in head bolt or pushrod holes, I slip snug aluminum plugs in the tube to support them while cutting. This prevents the cutter bit from grabbing the tube and folding inward. This works great on any application...

