HOW DO I USE THE MACHINE? If you opt for a “universal” CNC machine, you’ll need extensive training to learn the computer “coding” language required to create programs. However, if you choose a CNC machine that was designed specifically for use by engine builders, operation and the overall learning curve is much simplified, since programs [...]
COMPUTER-AIDED BLOCK MACHINING by Mike Mavrigian One of the prime benefits of owning a CNC machine is the capability of accurizing an engine block to “blueprint” specifications in terms of correct centerline placements. (photo courtesy Sunnen) A full-blown CNC machining center, such as this Sunnen/RMC V40, expands shop capabilities to include not only block and [...]
• “Bling Bling:” So a customer has a new Denali or Escalade with some “Dubs,” (rims for the old folks), and wants the speedometer to display the correct speed. The customer also notices he or she doesn’t have the power the truck had before he or she put those 26″ dubs on! So how about [...]
Crane Cams Tech Support By Crane Cams Tech & Customer Service Dept. We managed to glean a host of informative technical tips from the boys at Crane Cams.These tips cover a range of subjects from distributor gear wear to V-Twin motorcycle cams, and we think you’ll find them helpful. • Distributor Gear Wear: It has [...]
CAMSHAFT NEEDLE BEARINGS Roller bearings for camshaft tunnels offer increased timing precision, reduced operating friction and the ability to handle higher loads. by Mike Mavrigian An alternative to traditional cam bearings is the needle roller bearing, which provides increased stability and durability for extended high-RPM racing applications. Because of the expense of block machining and [...]
TOP FUEL RINGS & BEARINGS It’s simply amazing that any components are able to withstand this nightmarish environment. by Mike Mavrigian A Dykes top ring from a Top Fuel engine. (photo by author) Note the missing plasma moly that was blown off of this top ring. This ring (and its companion set) saw a mere [...]
DRY SUMP OIL SYSTEMS Efficient lubrication plus reduction of parasitic power loss. By Mike Mavrigian photos by author ENGINE OILING A street engine, and many race engines, utilize a “wet sump” system to deliver pressurized oil to the engine’s internal rotating and reciprocating assemblies. Engine oil is stored in the oil pan sump (the big [...]
Porsche Speed Record Run At Talladega We work and play with the big boys. by Mike Mavrigian photos by author Our three cars in the Talladega garage during testing week. As Forrest Gump often noted, you never know what you’re gonna get. In August and September of 2005, Precision Engine editor Mike Mavrigian was contracted [...]
STREET PERFORMANCE & RACING PISTON TECH Insight into the world of go-fast slugs. by Mike Mavrigian photos by author It should come as no surprise that piston technology has evolved over recent years, largely due to superior material availability and the advent of precision CNC-machining capabilities. While a custom piston order may have once required [...]
HANDY ASSEMBLY TOOL While I’m on the subject, here’s a very cool specialty tool that eases the pain of hose assembly. I just came across this tool recently, and I like it. It’s called the Koul Tool (aptly named). While you don’t absolutely need this tool, if you want to save your fingertips from needle [...]
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