A Few Basic Precision Tools

[Grumpy]

Hey GRUMPY, I need a few basic tools to measure bearing clearances and tools for installing a cam, etc, and suggestions?
(and yeah, I'm not swimming in cash, so please take that into account!)

keep in mind there's a long list of more expensive tools,
like mills, lathes, various types of welders, car lifts, drill presses, belt sanders, engine stands , engine cranes, hydraulic presses, air compressors, band saws crosscut saws. (test gauges, meters, code readers, timing lights micrometers bore gauges)
youll almost always require a machine shops services simply because most of us don't have the cash or room for all the tools required.
that most of us wish we owned or spent a great deal of time effort and money acquiring over decades

matching parts and a logical plan

I just had a rather long and detailed discussion with a guy who it was all too obvious ,was basically just, trying to get me to give him a detailed list of engine components to build his engine. one of the main secrets , too building a really effective combo is to match the engine and drive...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...-value-vs-price-and-options.12312/#post-60702

https://garage.grumpysperformance.c...20-ton-hydraulic-press-of-course-you-do.2735/

mill and lathe info you might need

theres info, with videos included, in the link and more videos below theres a ton of valid info that you would need in these links that will allow you to gain a basic understanding of whats required to use a milling machine or lathe...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

compressor info

most shops have or would like to have an air compressor to run air wrenches, fill tires, run die grinders ETC. the problem, is most reasonably priced air compressors can,t maintain the flow volume at reasonable pressure levels and your constantly waiting for the tank to re-pressurize, so you...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

Welding Tips and Welders

you tend to get what you pay for in the level of quality in precision tools,
keep in mind you don't always require the best quality tool to do a very nice build,
but you seldom get great results with low quality tools either,
its generally best to get upper mid range tools
but there are bargains, make a detailed list of your goals,
and the parts and tools you need and ask questions,
don't guess or assume anything.
and you certainly don't need the very best tool quality to build an acceptable and durable engine,
if you look over this web site you'll see its set up to answer questions and help guide you,
in engine assembly and avoiding problems.
I'd recommend you get a sturdy engine stand and a darn good quality auto lift and floor jacks etc.

and

reading as many links related to any questions you have as you can!
you can use all the precision measuring tools you may have but the truth is always evident in cross checking with plasti-gauge

Clevite Engine Parts MPG-1 Clevite 77 Plastigage | Summit Racing​

Free Shipping - Clevite 77 Plastigage with qualifying orders of $99. Shop Plastigage at Summit Racing.
www.summitracing.com

bearings and oil flow​

Bearings and oil flow viewtopic.php?f=53&t=88 http://www.babcox.com/editorial/us/us90126.htm http://www.insightservices.net/testoil/ ... cation.htm http://www.thirskauto.net/BearingPics.html http://micapeak.com/info/oiled.html http://www.unofficialbmw.com/all/misc/all_oilfaq.html...
garage.grumpysperformance.com

Precision measuring tools​

I’m looking for the best quality precision tools on a limited budget (i.e. I don't want to pay $300 for one mic). I plan on building the occasional small- & big-block Chevy (more than one, less than 1000). Names that come up on the limited results I’ve found on the web include Starrett...
garage.grumpysperformance.com

lining up oil feed holes in bearings shells​

I just got an e-mail asking what to do if you find that the blocks oil feed passage holes don,t line up exactly right with the holes in the oil feed holes in bearings shells? paint, marker etc. tends to wash off, you really should lightly die stamp the main caps...
garage.grumpysperformance.com

assembling and installing connecting rods/pistons​

look closely at the connecting rods one edge of the main bearing are is beveled noticeably more than the other that beveled side faces away from the rod its paired with because it matches the slight radiased bevel of the crank journal many builder class pistons are designed to go in, in either...
garage.grumpysperformance.com

assembling and installing connecting rods/pistons​

He Measured .0004" - 4/10,000 th of an inch #5 MAIN CAP BORE DISTORTION TORQUED DOWN TO SPECS WITH THE OIL PUMP ON. I DON'T.LIKE IT. IT SHOULD BE +/- .0001" TOLERANCE. +/- .0002" INCH MAX.
garage.grumpysperformance.com

matching parts and a logical plan​

I just had a rather long and detailed discussion with a guy who it was all too obvious ,was basically just, trying to get me to give him a detailed list of engine components to build his engine. one of the main secrets , too building a really effective combo is to match the engine and drive...
garage.grumpysperformance.com
I use both micrometers and snap gauges and cross check with plasti-gauge
and yes when you compare the crushed width of the plasti-gauge youll find it rarely falls as an exact match to the bar chart tape that is packaged with it so you can judge clearance based on crush width

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/bearing-clearances.2726/

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/clearanceflow.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/clearanceload.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/clearancetemp.jpg

as a general rule you select .001 bearing clearance for every inch of bearing journal diameter,
Rod bearings 0.002 - 0.025" , side clearance 0.010 - 0.020"

Main bearings 0.002 - 0.003" for most engines ( 0.020-0.025 bearing clearance on small blocks, .025-.027 bearing clearance is about ideal, on big blocks ), 0.005 - 0.007 crankshaft end play

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...ng-clearances-engine-builders-magazine.11965/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/oil-system-mods-that-help.2187/



and read through the links and sub links

https://www.harborfreight.com/2000-lbs-capacity-foldable-engine-stand-69522.html

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...ectly-and-get-it-to-last-cam-install-info.90/


Fowler Full Warranty Extender Dial Bore Gage Set, 52-646-400, 1.4-6" Measuring Range, 0.0005" Graduation Interval: Bore Measurement Gauges: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific

Fowler Full Warranty Extender Dial Bore Gage Set, 52-646-400, 1.4-6" Measuring Range, 0.0005" Graduation Interval: Bore Measurement Gauges: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific
www.amazon.com

6 Pcs Professional Premium Outside Micrometer Precision Machinist Tool Set 0-1"/1-2"/2-3"/3-4"/4-5"/5-6" Measuring Range Included 0.0001" Graduation: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific
6 Pcs Professional Premium Outside Micrometer Precision Machinist Tool Set 0-1"/1-2"/2-3"/3-4"/4-5"/5-6" Measuring Range Included 0.0001" Graduation: Amazon.com: Industrial & Scientific
www.amazon.com

not top quality but Ive used these or similar tools for decades, with zero problems

related threads and sub links you should read
yeah its all a bit overwhelming at first

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/tbucket-engine-project-dart-shp.3814/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/matching-parts-and-a-logical-plan.7722/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/what-to-look-for-in-a-good-engine-combo.9930/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...-about-your-potential-dream-bbc-combos.14607/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/bearing-clearances.2726/page-2#post-90591

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/types-of-crankshaft-steel.204/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...tion-of-crank-durring-short-blk-assembly.852/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/flex-head-gear-wrench-sets.16567/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/precision-measuring-tools.1390/#post-68850

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...block-cylinder-wall-thickness.976/#post-95567

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...e-springs-and-setting-up-the-valve-train.181/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/cam-bearing-install-tools-install-info.1479/

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/which-torque-wrench.342/#post-87029

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...needed-for-383-sbc-assembly.16041/#post-96746

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/finding-a-machine-shop.321/#post-59253

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...on-ring-info-youll-need.509/page-2#post-71538

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...ore-clearance-on-your-block.14251/#post-72471

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...g-with-a-local-machine-shop.14419/#post-74383

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/a-few-questions-on-bearings.14466/#post-75272

http://garage.grumpysperformance.co...-system-mods-that-help.2187/page-2#post-77851

http://garage.grumpysperformance.com/index.php?threads/engine-assembly-tips.4294/

 

[Grumpy]

almost all starter tool kits are loaded with tools you seldom use to build up the tool numbers in the kits
yet many are still a good value, but remember you'll need a few auxiliary accessory kits for tools like screw drivers ratchet wrenches and a couple ,wire cutters drill bits, pliers,socket extensions and swivels,
frequently used tools like a decent 1/2" chuck electric drill, and vise grips, 12" dial caliper, multi meter,etc.
you can certainly use a couple of soft tool bags as they are far easier to carry , in your car or store than the cheap plastic or flimsy metal boxes that come with most starter tool kits

Amazon.com

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-2...d-16-large-total-pockets-HD60024-TH/312387489

https://www.acmetools.com/shop/tool...wTqPfS82YeLeAXpDNp-vuCv3uC7lV2d4aAtIvEALw_wcB

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-138...c-Polished-Chrome-Mechanics-Tool-Set/50200791

https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-282-piece-Gunmetal-Chrome-Mechanic-s-Tool-Set/1002618996

https://www.walmart.com/ip/IRWIN-2078710-Vise-Grip-3-Pieces-GrooveLock-Pliers-Set/17238102

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-10-Piece-Household-Tool-Set/50029436

https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-...Gunmetal-Chrome-Mechanics-Tool-Set/1000596571

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-154...-Polished-Chrome-Mechanics-Tool-Set/999909119

https://www.lowes.com/collections/Kobalt-Mechanics-Collection/GR_609

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-439-Piece-Mechanic-s-Tool-Set/1001448260

https://gemplers.com/products/dewal...3m7KE5XM0hXefj1ZDtgwWtbHqxTNiEx8aAteQEALw_wcB

https://www.harborfreight.com/5-in-1-digital-multimeter-98674.html

https://www.walmart.com/ip/12-Verni...82195?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=14201

https://www.amazon.com/INTOO-Indust...9Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

https://www.amazon.com/Ridgid-Spade...ll+set&qid=1607798231&sr=8-51&tag=googhydr-20

Last edited: 2 minutes ago


after a while your sure to find you have accumulated a few tools ,
or small and expensive parts,
that did not come in higher quality protective boxes,
you don,t want to lose or damage these components,
letting them bounce around under other tools or parts unprotected,
smaller or precision tools like
rod bolt stretch gauges,
snap ring pliers and replaceable tip sets
milling machine bits,
drill bits,
louis tools,
spring height gauges
feeler gauges
, micrometers ,
depth mics ,
adjustable push rods,
spare fuel injectors
carb parts and jets
etc.
parts like ceramic magnets
carb gaskets
and electrical connectors,
(SENSOR PIGTAILS)
engine DOWELS
valve keepers/valve retainers
oxygen sensors and various other sensors
must be stored in protective boxes
you might find you keep those tools in a rust free compartment in your tool box
and you might want to store them in a shallow plastic snap lid box on a sheet of felt lightly sprayed with WD40
for that use the boxes used to store fishing lures with the removable dividers removed have proven useful
as they are thin enough and small enough to easily sit in tool chest drawers

https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/flambeau-zerust-utility-boxes

https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Jewelr...veable+divider+sections&qid=1603748790&sr=8-2

https://www.amazon.com/Yootop-Compa...eable+divider+sections&qid=1603749062&sr=8-26

 

[rlphvac]

I keep hundreds of those type boxes I keep everything in them from reloading dies to PVC pipe fittings to nuts and bolts every brand size and color and they are stacked and labeled I also have 30 Stanley fat max tool boxes to separate tools that I carry for work ones for solder and braze ,sheetmetal , A/C tools it makes it easier to grab what you need for the job

 

[Grumpy]

 

[Grumpy]

if your going to get into engine building you'll benefit from owning all the reference material you can get,
obviously that implies you actually take the time and effort to read through and take notes
one of the tools you really should have in your tool kit!
a great deal of process of correcting problems, lies in your skill at locating and isolating the source of those problems.
stepping back and thinking thru the possible problems and the necessary repairs, and tests that will isolate the problem, before starting the repairs beats the hell out of just randomly swapping components


maybe I do a few things differently, but I like having both a decent MIG and a decent TIG welder handy

Miller Millermatic 252 MIG Welder Complete Package (907321)

Miller's Auto Gun Detect allows operator to simply pull trigger on MIG gun, spool gun or push/pull gun. Automatically detects and recalls the voltage, wire feed speed and timer of the active gun

www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.com

I bought the MILLER 252 when it was less than 50% of what it costs now

Im saving for a replacement TIG welder

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0875VPDSM/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B0875VPDSM&pd_rd_w=ou7iT&content-id=amzn1.sym.f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_p=f734d1a2-0bf9-4a26-ad34-2e1b969a5a75&pf_rd_r=V9HRTRZBZ30SZJQV1RVB&pd_rd_wg=icFa8&pd_rd_r=8d6f98a3-fc81-49d4-8761-9fc9e5f6d97e&s=hi&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWw

and a decent AIR COMPRESSOR now

Husky 80 Gal. 3-Cylinder Single Stage Electric Air Compressor C801H - The Home Depot

Husky 80 Gal. single stage air compressor provides high air flow with has 14 SCFM at 90 PSI and 155 PSI max working pressure giving the user optimum tool performance. The compressor features an oil-lubricated

www.homedepot.com

WHEN tracking down problems you'll need to use a few basic tools,
use of a VACUUM GAUGE, a TIMING LIGHT AND A V.O.M. MULTI-METER!
and actually reading a SHOP MANUAL and the skill to read spark plugs
will go a long way toward helping you isolate the problem.

tools you really need
SHOP MANUAL
timing light
ENGINE STAND
vacuum gauge
IR temp gun
degree wheel
dial indicator and stand
fuel pressure gauge
V.O.M. multi meter
magnifying spark plug reader
lift or (4) 12 ton jack stands
basic mechanic hand tools
floor jack

the most valuable tool you can acquire is as broad a selection of valid information,
on exactly how and why things work in your car,s engine, drive train
and suspension , as a reference base to work from,
and acquiring a good set of testing and measuring tools to verify and test with
you really should get these books and read them before going any further, it will help a good deal


http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/A...5079777/sr=2-1/ref=sr_2_1/102-1234339-0571324

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...gy_img_2/102-1234339-0571324?v=glance&s=books

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...gy_img_2/102-1234339-0571324?v=glance&s=books

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t..._books_1/102-1234339-0571324?v=glance&s=books

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t..._books_3/102-1234339-0571324?v=glance&s=books

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/t...f=sr_1_2/102-1234339-0571324?v=glance&s=books

INVESTING THE TIME AND EFFORT IN PURCHASING AND READING A FEW BOOKS WILL BE VERY COST EFFECTIVE

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl1.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl2.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl3.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl4.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl5.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl6.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl7.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl8.jpg

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/bbcbl9.jpg

http://www.dragzine.com/tech-stories/en ... ine-block/
"

SMALL BLOCK REFERENCE BOOKS YOULL WANT
start by buying these books and watching the video

http://www.themotorbookstore.com/resmchstvi.html

http://www.amazon.com/David-Vizards...8&qid=1456194032&sr=8-5&keywords=DAVID+VIZARD
HOW TO BUILD MAX PERFORMANCE CHEVY SMALL BLOCKS ON A BUDGET by DAVID VIZARD
.

JOHN LINGENFELTER on modifying small-block chevy engines
http://www.amazon.com/Lingenfelter-...=1456193940&sr=8-1&keywords=JOHN+LINGENFELTER

http://www.amazon.com/Smokey-Yunick...2&sr=8-1&keywords=smokey+yunick+power+secrets

BUY A FEW BOOKS ON ENGINE REBUILDING AND PROPER ENGINE ASSEMBLY
AND READ THROGH THEM CAREFULLY,
ITS MONEY VERY WELL SPENT!

http://www.grumpysperformance.com/cop2.png

ok, gentlemen, what new tools do you want to buy , or have you purchased recently?

yeah, maybe I'm partly addicted to acquiring tools ,and learning new skills, but I've found that having those tools makes this auto modification, and trouble diagnosis hobby far easier so what new welders, valve spring load testers, plasma cutters, piston ring compressors, engine stands, engine...

garage.grumpysperformance.com

 

[Grumpy]

here's a set of similar tools to what I used for DECADES

yeah it takes time and it costs a bit more than you might expect to work on engines,
yes you'll need the typical mechanic tools (ratchets, sockets, wrenches, screw drivers etc)
but its a hell of a lot cheaper in the long term to do as much as you can rather than pay local machine shops
yeah I have more tools, I failed to list yet,
but this gets you a decent start

https://www.tooltopia.com/Fowler-FOW72-646-300 $97
https://www.harborfreight.com/1500-...ine-stand-57745.html?_br_psugg_q=engine+stand $300
https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/power-torque-tools/tools---equipment/lift-equipment/engine-hoist-stand/63ea21c7f96a/power-torque-tools-2000-lbs-engine-stand/ptt0/pt34710?q=engine+hoist/stand&pos=5 $235
https://www.amazon.com/Anytime-Tools-MICROMETER-Machinist-Precision/dp/B000JMW4AS $149
https://www.amazon.com/Tooluxe-03703L-Torque-Wrench-Hardened/dp/B0019VMI0Y/ref=sr_1_26?hvadid=634138162205&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9026987&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14552529798781837907&hvtargid=kwd-26093134744&hydadcr=1610_13556224&keywords=torque+wrench'&qid=1697297821&sr=8-26 $21
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/pro-66788 $70
https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-4000-...ocphy=9026987&hvtargid=pla-368968694334&psc=1 $87
https://www.harborfreight.com/needl...wECTJJWoocqp2Xti0trenypmNbpdCtNBoCauUQAvD_BwE $7
https://www.eastwood.com/eastwood-3...ickedid=629946432628&wickedsource=google&wv=4 $115
https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/SER2078 $40
https://www.cjponyparts.com/proform...BRmtqX-UKRXzC9_F1fmz1vuBz3p-AEFBoCLCoQAvD_BwE $83
https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS+Perform...hvaSp6v3a5oFdmqRbFd6S-SMhfv1BCrBoCrGgQAvD_BwE $69
https://www.jegs.com/i/Proform/778/67561/10002/-1 $18
https://www.jegs.com/i/Proform/778/66806/10002/-1 $18
https://www.jegs.com/i/Proform/778/66790/10002/-1 $12
https://www.amazon.com/Moroso-62191...lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER $85
https://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/80597/10002/-1 $129
https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Smal...l6Kqhr5dbODtNvmV3-wwsYY8CFWQkInxoC3DUQAvD_BwE $33
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/pro-67492?rrec=true $31
https://www.harborfreight.com/3-ton...al-floor-jack-with-rapid-pump-blue-56641.html $240
https://www.ebay.com/itm/283990629671?chn=ps&_trkparms=ispr=1&amdata=enc:1sAiEPpRmTrWk6T19NvaARg30&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&mkscid=101&itemid=283990629671&targetid=1644837434763&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9026987&poi=&campaignid=20394037589&mkgroupid=146829523890&rlsatarget=aud-1480434318228la-1644837434763&abcId=9317243&merchantid=6296724&gclid=CjwKCAjw-KipBhBtEiwAWjgwrJkH-U3zgHZIprfjvb6MzPPGDGb7irn0vugqxM9Ilm5j2FA7Pfy7-xoCSeIQAvD_BwE $27
https://www.amazon.com/VIVOHOME-Eng...ocphy=9026987&hvtargid=pla-584070357106&psc=1 $80
https://www.amazon.com/Tool-International-Mountain-Construction-MTN512005/dp/B09WQ2W52W/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=3VSI2QDZ28JDP&keywords=jack+stands+12+ton&qid=1697299539&sprefix=jack+stands,aps,173&sr=8-1-spons&ufe=app_do:amzn1.fos.18ed3cb5-28d5-4975-8bc7-93deae8f9840&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1 $125
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...1w84VOvAFhnN7JcVpEzy3VJ9qJmJOyuRoCMd8QAvD_BwE $100

 

[Grumpy]

https://www.amazon.com/Anytime-Tool...ocphy=9012039&hvtargid=pla-593404776954&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Micrometer-S...jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

https://www.amazon.com/Fowler-Stainless-Shockproof-52-008-708-0-Graduation/dp/B0047CZ2ZK/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=DF9Q5X3A4EVH&dchild=1&keywords=12+inch+dial+calipers+measuring+tool&qid=1635283606&sprefix=12+inch+dial+caliper,aps,127&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExTU5HSENUOElYVzJLJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNzMxOTE1MlA0QUxHODNER0lTTSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMzk2ODMwMkdTWkhXRlVNR1ZLSCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

having a few accurate measuring tools helps

bare minimum tools

Grumpy? what do you think the bare minimum of tools would be to build or re-build an engine? I'm thinking of rebuilding the 383 V8 in my road runner and while I have a standard set of mechanics tools like wrenches ratchets, sockets and a 1/2" torque wrench I'm certainly not in possession of...

garage.grumpysperformance.com