CNC-MACHINING AN ENGINE BLOCK A step-by-step overview of a specific block being machined on a CNC from start to finish. by Mike Mavrigian all photos by author CNC machines vary in terms of footprint size and axis capabilities. Thinking about taking the plunge and buying a CNC (computer numeric control) machine? Or have you wondered [...]
VINTAGE ENGINES THEY’RE BACK WITH A VENGEANCE by Mike Mavrigian photos by author all vehicles (except blue street rod) built by author Beginning with this issue, we’ve started a new editorial department that focuses strictly on the vintage engine market. This will include tech info and product offerings specifically relating to older engine designs that [...]
The forging process begins with a steel ingot that’s heated to approximately 2,400 degrees F, to the point of creating an almost Jell-O-type consistency. (photo courtesy Pacific Forge) With the near-molten steel placed in a forging die, a hammer press slams the die with about 240,000 lbs. in not one but multiple steps. (photo courtesy [...]
FORGED OR BILLET? Depending on who you talk to, some say that forgings are stronger than billets and some say just the opposite. We’re not going to debate that issue here. One of the indisputable benefits derived from carving cranks from billet bar stock is versatility since by simply writing the appropriate program, you can [...]
FORGED CRANKSHAFT TECH Ever wonder how a forged crank is made? We take a look at materials, the forging process and hardening methods. by Mike Mavrigian Just as diamonds are created by pressure and time, a forged crank is the result of heat and pressure, and a bit of precision machining. A forged crank offers [...]
The camshaft is spun-up on the balancer similar to any other rotating shaft. Example of a camshaft out of balance. Notice that the left side of the camshaft is 1.2 in./oz. out of balance and the right is 1.67 in./oz. out. Also note that the unbalanced units are not opposed to each other. This will [...]
CAMSHAFT BALANCING That’s right, camshaft balancing. It’s all about optimizing and regaining lost energy. The camshaft is yet another rotating mass, so why would we not pay attention to the subject of balance? When was the last time you balanced a camshaft? If you’re like most builders, the answer is never, with the answer accompanied [...]
Always use the cam assembly lube provided or recommended by the camshaft manufacturer, in addition to using the correct break-in oil. Nothing changes with regard to prep. Coat each lobe completely with the recommended assembly lube, usually a high-pressure moly-based material. Even with the lobes coated with moly, using an engine oil that is too [...]
CHOOSING THE RIGHT OIL FOR FLAT TAPPET CAM BREAK-IN All oils are not created equal. by Mike Mavrigian photos by author Avoiding flat tappet cam failure can be as simple as using the correct oil during break-in. Chances are you’ve run into this problem first-hand, or know a builder who has shared his horror stories. [...]
Both rod and main bearings must feature a specified amount of crush area in order to achieve bearing lock-in within the housing. The bearing shell outer edges (approaching the parting line areas) are larger than the saddle, which adds to the lock-in placement of the bearing shells. Dirt particles or embedded blasting shot left behind [...]
Subscribe to Precision Engine
Sign up for our E-newsletter