Safe Cleaning – Are the Concepts Compatible?
The subject of cleaning is never far from the mind of the modern engine builder or machine shop supervisor. Obviously, parts must be as clean as possible so they can be inspected, repaired if possible and reassembled. The subject of SAFE cleaning is a little less definitive, however.
Engine Pro Shop Solutions – April 2018
A BIT OF KNOWLEDGE Three tips to make your drill bits last longer. 1. Choose the right bit. A black oxide-coated bit helps reduce friction and increase chip flow, but shouldn’t be used on nonferrous materials. TiN is a titanium nitride with a gold color that can run faster than uncoated bits and increase tool
Equipment Options for Your Business
I’ve worked on lots of equipment that was a LOT older than me, and I can tell you there’s a certain satisfaction in taking the helm of a big, heavy machine that you know will still be working hard long after you’re retired.
Indy 500 Car Engines
Each May since 1911, thousands of auto racing fans have gathered to watch the most famous and talented drivers compete in the Indianapolis 500-mile race – better known as just the Indy 500. Winning the Indy 500 has been the goal of racing professionals for more than 100 years. Taking the checkered flag at the
Heads or Tails
If you’re feeling a bit confused right now, not sure which way is up and worried that you may be losing your grip on reality. If you’ve found this column after reading Engine Builder’s High Performance Buyers Guide and things just look, well, strange – try this: turn the magazine over. Now, does that
Engine Pro Shop Solutions – March 2018
I use an 1/8-inch allen wrench to insert and extract the pilot while doing valve jobs on cylinder heads. I would frequently misplace this little tool between seats, so I started using a rubber band to keep it attached to the palm of my hand.
Engine Pro Shop Solutions – February 2018
ROD TO CAM CLEARANCE GAUGE Using a plastic banding strap as a feeler gauge works great to check for clearance. The straps are generally .035˝-.045˝ thick, so you might want to double them up to check for the minimal .050˝-.060˝ clearance recommended. These work great as they easily bend to any curvature you need. If
How Will the New Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Impact Your Business?
The late-2017 tax overhaul known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) is the most sweeping change to the federal tax code in at least 30 years. It calls for lowering individual and corporate tax rates, repealing many tax credits and deductions, enhancing the child tax credit, boosting business write-offs, and more. The law
When Do You Blow the Whistle?
When do you cover for the prior mechanic or engine guy? When do you have to tell the customer the truth to justify the correction and parts? There have been times I have done it each way. And for a couple, I regret my decisions.
Cast and Forged Performance Pistons
If we consider the extreme environment of combustion pressures and high temperatures that regular cast replacement pistons operate in, it’s quickly apparent that when these values are increased it necessitates using a much more efficient component able to withstand these elevated levels.
Ford 9-Inch Differential
The Ford 9-inch differential is one of the most widely used differentials in hot rod, street rod and 4×4 vehicles. The Ford 9-inch differential was put into production beginning in the late 1950s, and remained in production up until the mid 1980s.
Understanding What Dynos Can Do For Your Business
An engine dyno can be a valuable tool in many corners of a modern engine facility. As an investigative tool, it can help you find new solutions to old challenges. As a testing tool, it can help prove your hypotheses. As a creativity tool it can help push you in new directions. And as a sales tool it can help differentiate you in the eyes of customers.
