Tapped out....

A job came into the shop that needed a bunch of holes tapped.  They were 8-32's...all 244 of them.  Unfortunately, my '87 Fadal did not come with the rigid tapping optional.  So, I initially resorted to my tapping head for the drill press.  Since it was aluminum, I used a diesel fuel as the tapping lubricant.  I usually have great success with it.  The problem was that the tapping head was taking way too long.  I was also having to fight with it. 

So, I figured I would take a chance and try tapping with the cordless drill.  I had to change my tapping fluid to Anchor Lube.  This stuff is fantastic.  I originally got it for tapping stainless and titanium, but boy, did it do a wonderful job.  I set the clutch on the drill at a very low setting.  This prevented me from breaking a tap as well as helped make sure I was tapping straight.  240 holes in about 10 minutes, not too bad...with a very nice finish I might add...

It Runs!!!

We finally got to start the '56 up last night.  There was a little clearance issue with the valve covers rubbing on the valves, but once that was addressed, it was running good.

It's always a good feeling when you set the timing by ear and then follow up with the timing light to find that it's right where it should be....

Can't wait to give it a drive.

Sorry about the poor lighting in the video, the camera battery was almost dead.

Rusting in Peace...

We went to another auction over the weekend.  The guy who own the estate definitely had a fetish for Oliver tractors and Ford Falcons.  There were over 30 cars and at least that many tractors.  Most of the cars were no more than scrap.  Kinda of sad really...

I never seen so many Olivers in one place.  Most looked like they hadn't run within the last decade...

Paint, Powder Coat and Chrome....

Well, in this case....just paint.

The last several pieces are finally coming together for the '56. We should be ready to start it this weekend.

Hoofin' it...

I was at an auction over the weekend and ended up buying some Model A parts  In the pile of parts was the cast iron head with "Hoof" written on it.  It's the one on the right in the photos.  It's got a fairly interesting combustion chamber.  I tried to do a search on it but didn't find anything.  If you know anything, please shoot me an email. 

More progress pics on the '56....

Finally was able to set the front clip back on the truck over the weekend.  It's all down hill from here....

Another Pinwood Derby Car....

I am a strong believer that there is no such thing as overkill.  So when my nephew came to me a said he need to build a pinewood derby car, naturally we both thought that we needed to machine one.  Sure, it might not be in the true spirit of the competition, but at least he will not have to do much sanding...

In absolute awe...

A proud car owner

By the way, he did write the program on his own...albeit with a little guidance on my part.  He also received an education on machine tools...