Steam & Engine of Australia

 

Tool Wish List

Apart from the basic tools you need to do restoration work you might find some of the following handy:

Engine CraneThe engine crane is a small metal crane with a hydraulic ram to lift it up and down. I have one which is on wheels and can lift 2 metric tons. This is a real bonus when you work or move anything heavy. One of my engines has a head which weighs in at 44kg - way above what I want to lift unaided (which if you subscribe to work place safety standards is around 16kg maximum).
Hydraulic JackThis invaluable tool is another heavy lifter. While not as useful as an engine crane, it does come in handy. Mine is usually used to support my trailer during loading an unloading to relieve some pressure on the hitch.
Cylinder Honing SetI've never yet had to hone any of my cylinders, but if you bring home a rusty basket case you will have to. The most popular sets appear to be the honing stones which are spun at high speed within the bore.
Parts WasherMany people actually consider this one vital, and with people thinking more environmentally these days it really is getting that way. Gone are the days when you sprayed degreaser on everything and just hosed it down the drain.
Sand/Bead BlasterThe Sand/Bead (I prefer glass bead) is one of the easiest ways to strip paint and dirt from a job without having to worry about sanding, brushing etc. Beads seem to last longer before they become useless. You will need a compressor to run this one
CompressorRequired to operate any air based tools, you will find a compressor very useful. I used to disdain air tools but have since gotten into them, at least for dissasembly. Also handy for spray painting, much less expensive than canned paint, although I still use canned primer since I prefer to clog and destroy the nozzle on a $4 spray can rather than my spray gun.

For best results you should get a compresssor which has:

  • Seperate motor, belt driven compressor;
  • At least 16 litre / 4 gallon air tank;
  • Automatic cut-out to stop the compressor when the tank is full;
  • Oil trap, moisture trap and air filter; and
  • Outgoing pressure adjustment; my compressor has two outlets, one unregulated for air tools and one regulated for spray painting etc - saves mucking around.
Set of Air toolsThis one really is not necessary, but I find using air tools, particularly an air ratchet for sockets is very useful.
Bench GrinderAgain, another tool which is not a necessity but if you are trying to shape some metal or clean a part with a wire wheel these are great.
LatheA lathe will be necessary if you are planning on making your own parts. You can true up cranks, machine new pistons, turn down oversized valves to fit your engine, etc.



This article is part of the Stationary Internal Combustion Engine Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). This series is a combination of my views and knowledge and the views and knowledge of other people - most of them members of the Stationary Engine Mailing List (More info on ATIS). Those articles which were written by others are © Copyright to the author. Those articles written by myself are © Copyright to Paul Pavlinovich.

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Disclaimer:It should be noted that the information given in this document is considered to be good advice by the people who give it, however any legal liability lies strictly with the reader. The contributors are hobbiests not professionals.

 
Last modified Sunday, 20-Jul-2003 15:28:00 BST
 
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