The Ford Barn - aluminuminging engine?

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hardtimes

11-09-2013 04:52 PM

aluminuminging engine?

Ok, I've read what's available in our past files regarding 'claying' for head/piston clearances. Also, regarding aluminum ball use method. Indications are that I've got a serious clearance problem. I have aluminum, but do not know if a guy makes alum balls or buys such ? And , what SIZE are the balls make; how are they used..placement; kept in place..what ?

itsa52

11-09-2013 05:26 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

Aluminum might be a bit hard.. I would stay with clay or possibly soft solder. then Size really doesn't matter.

51 MERC-CT

11-09-2013 05:28 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

Roll kitchen aluminum foil into little balls but not so tight that they won't collapse.

Richard in Florida

11-09-2013 05:42 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

Quote:

Originally Posted by 51 MERC-CT (Post 761765)

Roll kitchen aluminum foil into little balls but not so tight that they won't collapse.

I called them "aluma-peas" because a loosely rolled ball the size of a full-size pea is perfect. With aluma-peas you can much more easily measure their thickness, even save them for later reference.

uncle max

11-09-2013 05:47 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

They're held in place with a dab of grease.
Real hotrodder's use Butch Wax though!

51 MERC-CT

11-09-2013 06:00 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard in Florida (Post 761777)

I called them "aluma-peas" because a loosely rolled ball the size of a full-size pea is perfect. With aluma-peas you can much more easily measure their thickness, even save them for later reference.

Yep' used to use the same method over 40 yrs. ago to check dims. on experimental jet engines when conventional methods were impossible.

hardtimes

11-09-2013 07:29 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

Thanks to ALL,
I feel confident now in trying/using this method.
I also read in the files that someone suggested and uses 'body putty', as it hardens when left set....therefore, 'easier' to measure ! Any comments pos/neg on this method ?
Finally, my hands 'shakes a bit' and I have problems seeing what's shaking:) . Is there a mike instrument that you would recommend, that would be easier to use/see...mabe something digital with large numbers ?

B-O-B

11-09-2013 08:18 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

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barnfind

11-09-2013 09:09 PM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

I used to buy modeling clay at a hobby store for few bucks.
Pretty sticky so
A little talcum powder helps to avoid it sticking to the head.
Peel and measure with caliper.

40 Deluxe

11-10-2013 12:04 AM

Re: aluminuminging engine?

......And hope the dimension doesn't change during the peeling process!

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