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FREE UP ONE HAND
Jul 1, 2021 | CAMSHAFTS & VALVE TRAIN
FREE UP ONE HAND I found an easy way to bleed hydraulic lifter buckets in the vice. I stick a small hex bit into the socket head bolt that holds the jaws to the vise. Then you just need to hold the lifter in 1 hand and work the vise with the other. Josh Alexander...
KEEP IT CLEAN
Jul 1, 2021 | TOOLING
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...
THRUST WATCH
Jun 1, 2021 | ASSEMBLY
THRUST WATCH As engine builders we always make sure the crankshaft thrust is proper before assembling the rest of the engine. I believe we should also be measuring it again when it is in the vehicle because there are so many possible flywheel/clutch, torque converter...
QUICK T-NUTS
Jun 1, 2021 | OTHER SHOP WORK
QUICK T-NUTS Start with a carriage bolt with a head diameter 1/4" larger than the bottom of the T-slot. Be sure the bolt's square shank fits easily into the T-slot. Chuck the bolt in the lathe, drill and tap thru the head to a depth just beyond the end of the square...
GET IT STRAIGHT
Jun 1, 2021 | CRANKSHAFTS & CONNECTING RODS
GET IT STRAIGHT When balancing crankshafts, I feel I is imperative that the crank straightness be checked and corrected for before any balance work is done to ensure accuracy. I have an offset indicator that I’ve come up with that mounts right in the mill drill on the...
BLUE BE GONE
Jun 1, 2021 | OTHER SHOP WORK
BLUE BE GONE Metal parts that are exposed to too much heat will turn a shade of Blue. I found that brushing white vinegar on the eye of the connecting rod, after heating to install pistons, removes the Blue. Put vinegar in a plastic container for dipping small parts,...

