Help a first timer at the machine shop

[Revdoc]

I'm building my first engine, 2.2 CB forged pistons, TII rods, G head, 50 trim hybrid, etc. Hoping for 300+ hp. I found a machine shop around here that is supposedly very good and affordable, but they haven't worked on TD's before. I'm going to stop by the shop and look around this weekend while dropping off parts for him, and would like to ask him some questions to make sure he knows his stuff and ensure that all the different work that needs to be done is done.

So what should I ask him? I know the block will need to be bored, but should I also ask him to align hone it? What about a torque plate, does it need a special one, should he have one that will work? How do I know he's not fleecing me cause I'm inexperienced?

Thanks,
Josh

[turbovanman]

Machining a turbo 4 banger block is not different than a V8 etc. You should have your deck resurfaced, the oil galley plugs on both ends should be tapped for pipe plugs, line bore checked but they rarely go egg shaped or out of round, rods should be resized with ARP rod bolts and the bushings replaced on the little end and reamed to size and of course, if its hot tanked, the intermediate shaft bearings need replacing.
You should ask him what he thinks of using a torque plate, if he says there pointless, find someone else. Now on that note, not many shops or any are going to have one, and they do work, better ring seal. FWD performance has one for rent!

[looneytuner]

Post where you are. somebody might know a good shop there.

[Revdoc]

Columbia, MO. Right down the road from you.

[Phreakish]

I did the whole song and dance when looking for a machine shop too. Best bet is to talk to some garages and see where they farm out machine work - thats how I found my shop. They build everything from rice to alcohol burning mules that hit 7 secs at the local strip.

when I asked about a torque plate, his reply was 'we might have to make one for this engine, but we NEVER go without one'. Which was good...

Then I had him look over the engine, he was impressed and started asking what I was gonna do with it. When I told him I planned 18+ psi in my rampage which I was converting from carb to turbo, he got even more impressed - he had little sense of humor, but a good guy. He then went down the list, did a quick explain for everything, and gave me a sheet with a quote. Told me thats how much it'll cost and that I could look around a bit if I wanted. I was impressed with his engine knowledge (was able to point out things I had missed!, even told me I'd have to bring in some bearings for the int. shaft if I wanted it done right!).

After they cleaned it, it took off a lot of my paint, when they finished up the block, they even repainted it for me!

He lived up to his word and did GREAT work. Wound up having him do my head, rods/pistons, and crank.

I took a crank to a cheapo shop and was NOT impressed, the guy cut it wrong, and I couldnt' get bearings to save my life, and then had to have it recut - never go by price, go by experience.

[turbovanman]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Phreakish never go by price, go by experience.

Truer words have never been spoken!

When it comes to machining, you get what you pay for.

BTW, my machine shop made a torque plate for me, and didn't charge me for it,

[Revdoc]

Thanks guys. I was referred to this guy by a local mechanic that I know, he does all the machine work for their shop. He seemed fairly knowledgeable when I talked to him, said they build dirt track engines on the side. I will ask about the torque plate and other machine work, and hopefully sound like I know something now that I actually know what to ask about.

Thanks,
Josh

[Phreakish]

Quote:

Originally Posted by turbovanman BTW, my machine shop made a torque plate for me, and didn't charge me for it,

same here, they just added it to their collection! Apparently they'd done several of the motors in the past, but they were from forklifts and the customer wanted 'em 'cheap'... Was funny how much respect he gave me AND the engine given that they build 1000+hp engines every day. When I got to talking with him and other customers in the shop, they were all impressed with what I was describing. I have a great time everytime I go to my machinist (unless its time to pony up for the work).

[macncheese]

yeah, same here. i actually started working at the machine shop on my days off of my regular job. i learned a lot about precision.
tony