I just purchased Bill Silver's engine book and am going to delve into my own engine this winter. I want to make sure I don't get stuck or end up messing something up because I was using a screwdriver when I should have been using some $10 doodad that makes the engine build itself.
So, my question is, are there any special tools that I should start acquiring to make for a better engine build? I have all the standard garage tools and don't necessarily need or want a honda tool if I can get something from sears that does the same job. In short, I'm not looking to make the tools part of my vintage parts collection, I just need something that works.
Suggestions? Or am I fine with the standard stuff?
any special tools required for engine rebuild?I've just gotten my engine all apart, using only two special tools.
One was an adapter to my slide hammer to remove rocker arm shafts. (homemade) The other is a valve spring compresser. I've seen various homemade ones on this forum. Mine started with a "c" clamp. I cut the end off an extra flathead valve spring compresser I had and welded it to a piece of flat iron bent in a V shape, then welded it to the stationary end of the clamp. Works perfectly. Removing the rotor from the crankshaft probably is easier with the proper size bolt as a puller. I use a 3 jaw puller with a deep socket against the shaft. As far as I can tell assembly shouldn't require anything else special. 63 CA78
Thanks for the feedback. My welding skills are lacking (as is my welding equipment) so I'll probably end up buy the few that I need. This spring compressor seem ok? http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-23300-Engin ... 625&sr=1-8 That one won't work as is. The "U" shaped part needs to go straight down into the valve cover hole for compressing the spring. The end should be a little smaller around than the hole. I don't have a picture but these links should give you the idea:
http://www.honda305.com/forums/viewtopi ... lve+spring http://www.honda305.com/forums/viewtopi ... lve+spring 63 CA78
special toolsCyclon,
If your gonna tackle this yourself for the first time...here's my two cents: No special tools required except the flywheel puller thing to get the stator bolt out . Be patient as you go. Things like the valve head...send it out (unless your up for it) to Loud Mouse to have it done professionally, it's not too expensive and he does a great job. Other than that, if your half way mechanically inclined, along with your Bill Silvers books, you'll do fine. Be sure to scan this site for tips on any area of interest as there are some good ones. Take pictures or draw diagrams of the things that seem complex to you. I don't have the manuals, but the guys on this forum were more than helpful (LM and Fast Fred to mention two). I had fun with the rebuild and the dang thing runs! By the way...this too was my first rebuild. Hope it goes well, Mike
Re: special toolsThanks Mike, I'm pretty capable when it comes to breaking...errr..fixing things up :-). I do all the work on my cars and bike but this is the first engine build up. As you mentioned, I plan on sending the head out to be done. I'll probably get the top end bored to a once over along with some milling to even things out. I'm doing my research on the valves at the moment. The motor has some mileage and I want to put new parts in wherever I can afford to (like the valves, guides, etc). Definitely do not want to cheap out on engine parts.
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