I Pimped My Compressor (LIME)
==========================
==========================
Finally, the LIME project is complete!
See how the little 1HP compressor that followed me home turned out!
Showing posts with label Tools Channel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tools Channel. Show all posts
Thursday, March 5, 2020
Saturday, February 15, 2020
LIME - Cowling Repair
LIME Cowling Repair
After I got LIME home, I noticed that its cowling was damaged. There was a crack running from the part immediately over the compression chamber all the way down to the area of the cowling that protected the start capacitor. In total, it was about 8 inches long.
I tried a couple of different methods to fix this problem. First, I tried super glue. I put a generous layer of super glue on the matching faces and let it set overnight, using tape to apply compression. After that, put in a second layer of super glue, again using tape, but this time to lay a nice fat bead over where the crack was in an attempt to fill in any remaining gaps. It looked ok, but as I was sanding down the excess glue I discovered that the repair was very fragile, and it cracked open again with even the slightest bending pressure.
At that point I knew that plastic welding was necessary, so I broke out my soldering iron and started to melt the plastic where the crack used to be. It took about an hour with a 40W soldering iron in a well-ventilated area. After the plastic had cooled, I used varying grits of sandpaper to blend the repair into the rest of the look of the cowling, which had a kind of pebbled texture. Once the plastic weld was complete, I used acetone to clean the surface of the cowling and prepare it for paint. Then I applied two coats of high gloss black paint, waiting about 30 minutes between coats.
Once the project complete, I was delighted with the results. Yes, it took a couple of tries to get that crack repaired, but with perseverance and resourcefulness, I managed to get it done - and it's the hard stuff that are the most worth doing. You can see the entire process in this 2-part video series:
LIME COWLING REPAIR PART 1:
LIME COWLING REPAIR PART 2:
Help a Maker Out?
Did you see anything in this video you want for yourself? If the answer is yes, consider using one of the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you do, I get a small commission that keeps me going!
Bill of Materials
GLOVEWORKS HD Industrial Black Nitrile Gloves - 6 mil, Latex Free, Powder Free, Diamond Texture, Disposable, Large, GWBN46100-BX, Box of 100https://amzn.to/35fifrv
Dry Wet Sandpaper by Heylure, 45PCS 9 x 3.6" Silicon Carbide, 120 to 5000 Grit Sandpaper Sheets Assortment, for Metal Sanding, Automotive Polishing, Wood Furniture, Wood Turning Finishing
https://amzn.to/36AhUj5
Utopia Towels 12 Pack Dish Towels, 15 x 25 Inches Ultra Soft Cotton Dish Cloths, Blue
https://amzn.to/34rdwC1
FIXKIT 7-in-1 Portable Workbench, Multifunctional Folding Work Table Scaffold/Dolly/Platform with 4 Wheels for Garage
https://amzn.to/2QVtrVE
Best Value 24-Piece Master Combination Wrench Set with Roll-up Storage Pouch | SAE 1/4” to 1”
https://amzn.to/2GyIU87
Rust-Oleum 7579838 Professional High Performance Enamel Spray Paint, 15 oz, Gloss Black
https://amzn.to/3bI73au
Super Nail Pure Acetone, 16 fl. oz.
https://amzn.to/2RbUCu8
Thursday, February 13, 2020
LIME - Water Draining (YUCK!)
LIME - Water Draining (YUCK!)
Here's a very disgusting video about LIME, the stray 1HP
compressor that I took home a little while ago.
Draining the water out of a compressor isn't a particularly difficult
thing to do - you just unscrew a plug, basically.
What's amazing about this video isn't the process, it's the
amount of water that was in the compressor, which blew my mind! Every time before when I drained a
compressor, even a fairly large one, the amount of water that came out was
basically a few tablespoons.
NOT THIS TIME!
Watch and be amazed!
Help a Maker Out?
Did you see anything in this video you want for
yourself? If the answer is yes, consider
using one of the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you do, I get a small commission that
keeps me going!
Bill of Materials
GLOVEWORKS HD Industrial Black Nitrile Gloves - 6 mil, Latex
Free, Powder Free, Diamond Texture, Disposable, Large, GWBN46100-BX, Box of 100
WD-40 Multi-Use Product Non-Aerosol Trigger Pro Spray. 20
oz. [1-Pack]
Bondhus 22199 Hex L-wrench DoublePK,Long Length,12137
.050-3/8" & 12199 1.5-10mm
Felo 0715750274 1/2" Series 800 Slotted Screwdriver,
8"
Armor All 10160 Protectant, Original 1 pt (16 fl oz) 473 ml
Trident Silicone Grease Jar
Disposable Chopsticks, pack of 40 pair
Mazbot 6" Cushion Comfort Foam Grip Beading Awl
AmazonBasics C Cell 1.5 Volt Everyday Alkaline Batteries -
Pack of 4 (Appearance may vary)
15 pieces Scratch Brush (Stainless Steel + Brass+Nylon),
AFUNTA Curved Handle Masonry Wire brush Set Bristle for Cleaning Welding Slag
and Rust,5 pcs Per Type
6 Pack Stainless Steel Sponges, Scrubbing Scouring Pad,
Steel Wool Scrubber for Kitchens, Bathroom and More
Dawn Professional Pot and Pan Detergent Regular Scent 1
Gallon
TEKTON 24335 1/2" Drive Click Torque Wrench
(10-150'.-Lb./13.6-203.5 Nm)
40 Pieces - EPAuto 1/4-Inch & 3/8-Inch Drive Socket Set
with 72 Teeth Reversible Ratchet
BLACK+DECKER RTX-6 2 Amp 3-Speed Rotary Tool
PHYHOO Polishing Buffing Wheels Wool Felt Mounted Mandrel
Grinding Bits Grinder Head Polish Watch Jewelry Rotary Tool Accessories Drill
Tools Attachment - 1/8 Inch Shank
Dry Wet Sandpaper by Heylure, 45PCS 9 x 3.6" Silicon
Carbide, 120 to 5000 Grit Sandpaper Sheets Assortment, for Metal Sanding,
Automotive Polishing, Wood Furniture, Wood Turning Finishing
Utopia Towels 12 Pack Dish Towels, 15 x 25 Inches Ultra Soft
Cotton Dish Cloths, Blue
FIXKIT 7-in-1 Portable Workbench, Multifunctional Folding
Work Table Scaffold/Dolly/Platform with 4 Wheels for Garage
Best Value 24-Piece Master Combination Wrench Set with
Roll-up Storage Pouch | SAE 1/4” to 1”
WORKPRO 4-piece Adjustable Wrench Set, Forged, Heat Treated,
Chrome-plated (6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch)
Channellock 440 Tongue and Groove Pliers | 12-Inch Straight
Jaw Groove Joint Plier with Comfort Grips | 2.25-Inch Jaw Capacity | Laser
Heat-Treated 90° Teeth| Forged High Carbon Steel | Made in USA
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Combo Kit, 2-Tool (DCK240C2)
Sunday, February 9, 2020
LIME - The Stray 1HP Compressor (Part 2)
LIME - The Stray 1HP Compressor (Part 2)
==================================
==================================
The Chrysalis
------------------
This video covers cleaning up LIME in preparation for upcoming repairs and upgrades. As mentioned previously, the many problems afflicting LIME fell into three distinct groups:
------------------
This video covers cleaning up LIME in preparation for upcoming repairs and upgrades. As mentioned previously, the many problems afflicting LIME fell into three distinct groups:
1) Broken Parts
2) Missing Parts
3) Upgrades
2) Missing Parts
3) Upgrades
But First, The Final Audit (Cleaning)
---------------------------------------------
But before I can implement any of the above, I need to get the unit into a state where it can be worked on without making everything filthy. I also strongly believe that cleaning up something makes you go over every inch of it, which often surfaces problems that a cursory examination may not reveal. So, this video chronicles me doing everything I can to get LIME into an acceptable cosmetic condition - and by doing so, auditing every one of its systems (mechanical & electrical). I also find that cleaning something puts me in better touch with it somehow, which often makes future repairs much more effective because I have totally incorporated the thing into my psyche.
---------------------------------------------
But before I can implement any of the above, I need to get the unit into a state where it can be worked on without making everything filthy. I also strongly believe that cleaning up something makes you go over every inch of it, which often surfaces problems that a cursory examination may not reveal. So, this video chronicles me doing everything I can to get LIME into an acceptable cosmetic condition - and by doing so, auditing every one of its systems (mechanical & electrical). I also find that cleaning something puts me in better touch with it somehow, which often makes future repairs much more effective because I have totally incorporated the thing into my psyche.
Help a Maker Out?
-----------------------
Did you see anything in this video you want for yourself? If the answer is yes, consider using one of the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you do, I get a small commission that keeps me going!
-----------------------
Did you see anything in this video you want for yourself? If the answer is yes, consider using one of the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you do, I get a small commission that keeps me going!
Bill of Materials
-------------------
GLOVEWORKS HD Industrial Black Nitrile Gloves - 6 mil, Latex Free, Powder Free, Diamond Texture, Disposable, Large, GWBN46100-BX, Box of 100
https://amzn.to/35fifrv
-------------------
GLOVEWORKS HD Industrial Black Nitrile Gloves - 6 mil, Latex Free, Powder Free, Diamond Texture, Disposable, Large, GWBN46100-BX, Box of 100
https://amzn.to/35fifrv
WD-40 Multi-Use Product Non-Aerosol Trigger Pro Spray. 20 oz. [1-Pack]
https://amzn.to/30h2nmN
https://amzn.to/30h2nmN
Disposable Chopsticks, pack of 40 pair
https://amzn.to/3979cLK
https://amzn.to/3979cLK
Mazbot 6" Cushion Comfort Foam Grip Beading Awl
https://amzn.to/2ZjDwOL
https://amzn.to/2ZjDwOL
15 pieces Scratch Brush (Stainless Steel + Brass+Nylon), AFUNTA Curved Handle Masonry Wire brush Set Bristle for Cleaning Welding Slag and Rust,5 pcs Per Type
https://amzn.to/2rvQFYK
https://amzn.to/2rvQFYK
Dawn Professional Pot and Pan Detergent Regular Scent 1 Gallon
https://amzn.to/2R61fzG
https://amzn.to/2R61fzG
40 Pieces - EPAuto 1/4-Inch & 3/8-Inch Drive Socket Set with 72 Teeth Reversible Ratchet
https://amzn.to/2ROLnk6
https://amzn.to/2ROLnk6
Utopia Towels 12 Pack Dish Towels, 15 x 25 Inches Ultra Soft Cotton Dish Cloths, Blue
https://amzn.to/34rdwC1
https://amzn.to/34rdwC1
FIXKIT 7-in-1 Portable Workbench, Multifunctional Folding Work Table Scaffold/Dolly/Platform with 4 Wheels for Garage
https://amzn.to/2QVtrVE
https://amzn.to/2QVtrVE
Best Value 24-Piece Master Combination Wrench Set with Roll-up Storage Pouch | SAE 1/4” to 1”
https://amzn.to/2GyIU87
https://amzn.to/2GyIU87
Saturday, February 8, 2020
LIME - The Stray 1HP Compressor
I Adopted A Stray Compressor Today
While walking around in one of the most famous second hand goods markets in Hong Kong, Ap Liu Street, I spotted a small air compressor sitting alone in the middle of the road. At first, I ignored it because it looked like it was someone else's and wasn't going to be there for long - but when I circled back to the same place thirty minutes later, I realized that nobody was interested in this little guy.
So I made an offer - a ridiculously low offer. And got laughed at. I then pointed out that I was willing to take the unit immediately and nobody else had shown any interest. At that point, I got a bunch of insults thrown my way, all along the lines of "you no good cheap-o, cheapskate, skinflint, etc...). So I then pulled the money out of my wallet and offered up the cash. The insults instantly abated and the transaction was quickly consummated. God I love Hong Kong.
For obvious reasons, I christened this little compressor LIME. It arrived with a multitude of problems that seemed to need immediate attention (goody!).
The many problems afflicting LIME fell into two groups: Broken Parts & Missing Parts.
Broken Parts
Cowling:
The Cowling was badly cracked, making it ugly and probably a safety hazard:
My intention is to try to repair it with super glue, and then (maybe) paint it a different color.
Main Coupler
The Main Coupler was broken, making it impossible to plug in an air hose and therefore rendering this compressor useless. This may have been the primary reason why LIME was discarded:
Air Filter
By the look of it, Lime had an air filter at one time, and that filter had been snapped off, leaving only a stem remaining. To protect the unit, a new air filter would be needed.
Missing Parts
Crankcase Cap
LIME arrived without a crankcase cap. Instead a plastic cap that is popular in Hong Kong to help recycle used quart beer bottles as containers of popular solvents (alcohol, acetone, turpentine, etc...) had been jammed in the hole:
Compressor Oil
It appears that LIME is the kind of compressor that likes to have compressor oil in a sump at the bottom of the crancase. The oil lubricates its bottom end, where the crank, push rods and bottom of the pistons do their work. Lime has a sight glass, but that glass shows no sign of any oil:
Rubber Feet
Unlike most compressors, LIME has no rubber feet, which help to prevent the transmission of the vibrations of the compressor into the floor. At the moment, there are only four badly bent steel fittings into which rubber feet should have been attached:
Replacement Parts
Looking around online, I found the following repair, replacement and upgrade parts:
Help a Maker Out?
Did you see anything in this video you want for yourself? If the answer is yes, consider using one of the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you do, I get a small commission that keeps me going!
Bill of Materials
GLOVEWORKS HD Industrial Black Nitrile Gloves - 6 mil, Latex Free, Powder Free, Diamond Texture, Disposable, Large, GWBN46100-BX, Box of 100
https://amzn.to/35fifrv
WD-40 Multi-Use Product Non-Aerosol Trigger Pro Spray. 20 oz. [1-Pack]
https://amzn.to/30h2nmN
Disposable Chopsticks, pack of 40 pair
https://amzn.to/3979cLK
Mazbot 6" Cushion Comfort Foam Grip Beading Awl
https://amzn.to/2ZjDwOL
15 pieces Scratch Brush (Stainless Steel + Brass+Nylon), AFUNTA Curved Handle Masonry Wire brush Set Bristle for Cleaning Welding Slag and Rust,5 pcs Per Type
https://amzn.to/2rvQFYK
Dawn Professional Pot and Pan Detergent Regular Scent 1 Gallon
https://amzn.to/2R61fzG
40 Pieces - EPAuto 1/4-Inch & 3/8-Inch Drive Socket Set with 72 Teeth Reversible Ratchet
https://amzn.to/2ROLnk6
Utopia Towels 12 Pack Dish Towels, 15 x 25 Inches Ultra Soft Cotton Dish Cloths, Blue
https://amzn.to/34rdwC1
FIXKIT 7-in-1 Portable Workbench, Multifunctional Folding Work Table Scaffold/Dolly/Platform with 4 Wheels for Garage
https://amzn.to/2QVtrVE
Best Value 24-Piece Master Combination Wrench Set with Roll-up Storage Pouch | SAE 1/4” to 1”
https://amzn.to/2GyIU87
Sunday, December 29, 2019
BONDHUS Hex Keys **WOW**
Tools
BONDHUS Hex Keys **WOW**
After completely destroying TWO no-name hex keys that I purchased on Ap Liu Street, I decided to treat myself to a set of high-quality, name brand hex keys.
If you look closely at the long, silver-colored hex key in the video, you can see that I twisted it along its long axis before I ended up rounding the head. At a standstill and in total frustration, I cranked up google and looked for a 2019 hex key review:
After exploring the different optionsm I elected to go for the BONDHUS Hex Keys #22199, because it looked affordable and offered both Imperial and Metric keys in one low-cost purchase. I think each key ended up costing around a half dollar or so, which seemed good to me.
Approaching the motorcycle with some trepidation (after all, if the Bondhus failed - what then would I do?) I was able to remove the remaining bolts in the handlebar risers and get the handlebars off! Fantastic!
So I have to say that I am very pleased with the BONDHUS Hex Keys. They proved up to the task when TWO other sets failed miserably.
Highly recommended!
Here's a video of the BONDHUS Hex Keys in action....
Did you see anything in this video you want?
If yes, use one of the the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com.
If you do, I get a small, but very encouraging commission!
https://amzn.to/2OV4Ei8
BONDHUS Hex Keys **WOW**
After completely destroying TWO no-name hex keys that I purchased on Ap Liu Street, I decided to treat myself to a set of high-quality, name brand hex keys.
If you look closely at the long, silver-colored hex key in the video, you can see that I twisted it along its long axis before I ended up rounding the head. At a standstill and in total frustration, I cranked up google and looked for a 2019 hex key review:
After exploring the different optionsm I elected to go for the BONDHUS Hex Keys #22199, because it looked affordable and offered both Imperial and Metric keys in one low-cost purchase. I think each key ended up costing around a half dollar or so, which seemed good to me.
Approaching the motorcycle with some trepidation (after all, if the Bondhus failed - what then would I do?) I was able to remove the remaining bolts in the handlebar risers and get the handlebars off! Fantastic!
So I have to say that I am very pleased with the BONDHUS Hex Keys. They proved up to the task when TWO other sets failed miserably.
Highly recommended!
Here's a video of the BONDHUS Hex Keys in action....
Video
HELP A MAKER OUT?
Did you see anything in this video you want? If yes, use one of the the link(s) below to buy it directly from amazon.com.
If you do, I get a small, but very encouraging commission!
VIDEO BILL OF MATERIALS
Bondhus 22199 Hex L-wrench Double PK,Long Length,12137 .050-3/8" & 12199 1.5-10mmhttps://amzn.to/2OV4Ei8
Saturday, December 28, 2019
SILVER MINE Hardware Store Tool Run! COOL!
In this video, I discuss the tools that I bought at the Hardware Store with the coolest name on Lantau Island. It's located in a town called SILVERMINE, and it stocks everything any home renovator would possibly need - and many of the goods are brought in by boat!
Lantau is the largest Island that composes the territory of Hong Kong. It's mostly undeveloped and wild and FULL OF SNAKES and other critters including the CHINESE COBRA and BURMESE PYTHONS, not to mention BARKING DEER, FERAL COWS and WATER BUFFALO.
Anyways, the tool run was a lot of fun and I go over the items I purchased there in this video. Enjoy!
HELP A MAKER OUT
================
Do you see anything in this video you want for yourself? If you do, please use the link listed below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you buy this way, I get a small commission from amazon that encourages me to continue as a YouTube creator.
BILL OF MATERIALS:
=================
3M Virtua Safety Glasses with Clear Frame and Clear Polycarbonate Anti-Scratch Hard Coat Lens
https://amzn.to/2MpAZNG
G & F 5015L-5 Regular Cowhide Leather Palm Work Gloves for driving and construction with rubberized safety cuff, Large, 5-Pair pack
https://amzn.to/35OwX9k
Forney 72748 Wire Wheel Brush, Fine Crimped with 1/2-Inch Arbor, 3-Inch-by-.008-Inch
https://amzn.to/36xvbJR
GP12626 Hook and Loop Rotary Backing Pad with 5/8''-11 Thread, Sanding, Polishing Backer/Diameter 5 inch
https://amzn.to/2LLx6CE
CSLU 100pcs 4 Inch Sanding Discs Pad for Drill Grinder Rotary Tools 80-3000 Grit Sandpapers
https://amzn.to/2RGyHgK
Rust-Oleum 260510 Automotive 2 In 1 Filler and Sandable Primer Spray Paint, 12 oz, Gray
https://amzn.to/2EQ8BAk
Rust-Oleum 248903 Automotive 12-Ounce High Heat 2000 Degree Spray Paint, Flat Black
https://amzn.to/2Zkrzs1
Lantau is the largest Island that composes the territory of Hong Kong. It's mostly undeveloped and wild and FULL OF SNAKES and other critters including the CHINESE COBRA and BURMESE PYTHONS, not to mention BARKING DEER, FERAL COWS and WATER BUFFALO.
Anyways, the tool run was a lot of fun and I go over the items I purchased there in this video. Enjoy!
HELP A MAKER OUT
================
Do you see anything in this video you want for yourself? If you do, please use the link listed below to buy it directly from amazon.com. When you buy this way, I get a small commission from amazon that encourages me to continue as a YouTube creator.
BILL OF MATERIALS:
=================
3M Virtua Safety Glasses with Clear Frame and Clear Polycarbonate Anti-Scratch Hard Coat Lens
https://amzn.to/2MpAZNG
G & F 5015L-5 Regular Cowhide Leather Palm Work Gloves for driving and construction with rubberized safety cuff, Large, 5-Pair pack
https://amzn.to/35OwX9k
Forney 72748 Wire Wheel Brush, Fine Crimped with 1/2-Inch Arbor, 3-Inch-by-.008-Inch
https://amzn.to/36xvbJR
GP12626 Hook and Loop Rotary Backing Pad with 5/8''-11 Thread, Sanding, Polishing Backer/Diameter 5 inch
https://amzn.to/2LLx6CE
CSLU 100pcs 4 Inch Sanding Discs Pad for Drill Grinder Rotary Tools 80-3000 Grit Sandpapers
https://amzn.to/2RGyHgK
Rust-Oleum 260510 Automotive 2 In 1 Filler and Sandable Primer Spray Paint, 12 oz, Gray
https://amzn.to/2EQ8BAk
Rust-Oleum 248903 Automotive 12-Ounce High Heat 2000 Degree Spray Paint, Flat Black
https://amzn.to/2Zkrzs1
MOSTA Cordless Power Tools Update!
In this video I go over the MOSTA Cordless Power Tools that I bought (used & new) and my intentions with respect to the 1 Power Packs that I now have.
First, a bit of a tweak to the charging stand, so it doesn't slide all over the place.
Second, a discussion of the defective power pack and examination of the three GONG TIAN 2200mAH Lithium Ion batteries I received in the mail today (with another arriving soon) that I will be using to REBUILD the MOSTA HL1480 12v power pack, either to its original 3-battery configuration or maybe go a little wild and convert it into a 6-battery "super power pack".
First, a bit of a tweak to the charging stand, so it doesn't slide all over the place.
Second, a discussion of the defective power pack and examination of the three GONG TIAN 2200mAH Lithium Ion batteries I received in the mail today (with another arriving soon) that I will be using to REBUILD the MOSTA HL1480 12v power pack, either to its original 3-battery configuration or maybe go a little wild and convert it into a 6-battery "super power pack".
How To Troubleshoot & Refurbish a DEAD $10 Cordless Drill Back to Working Condition!
I bought a tool on the street for ten bucks. It was completely untested and the vendor initially refused to sell it to me because it "didn't work!".
After some convincing (I really should video the convincing some day, there are bunches of people who refuse to sell me broken things because they don't want to RIP ME OFF...) she sold it to me, somewhat ashamedly.
Here's how I brought a drill back to life, by cleaning it, troubleshooting it and buying another tool with a compatible battery.
In a future video I will show how to repair the problem (faulty power pack) by testing and changing out its defective 18650 Lithium Ion batteries.
After some convincing (I really should video the convincing some day, there are bunches of people who refuse to sell me broken things because they don't want to RIP ME OFF...) she sold it to me, somewhat ashamedly.
Here's how I brought a drill back to life, by cleaning it, troubleshooting it and buying another tool with a compatible battery.
In a future video I will show how to repair the problem (faulty power pack) by testing and changing out its defective 18650 Lithium Ion batteries.
Friday, December 27, 2019
Amazon Unboxing (2019-11-26)
In one of my first Amazon unboxings, we look at the BONDHUS Hex Keys that I bought as response to destroying TWO cheap-o hex keys from sets that I had previously bought at a discount store, along with a digital tire pressure gauge to help us quickly and accurately check our tires.
The BONDHUS Hex Keys are American made and come with a lifetime warranty. Bondhus claims that they are made from top-quality steel, and, given the difficulty I am having removing the handlebar riser bolts of EZ-RIDER, I felt that purchasing a top-quality tool was now needed. So, I looked on google and found a couple of lists of TOP 10 Hex Key Sets (where Bondhus ranked as high as #2) and then went and found a set on amazon.com that was both comprehensive (Metric and Imperial included) and affordable.
To get our order over USD50, and thereby qualify for free shipping, we needed to find an inexpensive item for under USD10.00 that would be generally useful in our lives now and into the future. Considering how many flat tires we have had in just the past year, I thought that the digital tire gauge pressure meter I found fit the bill perfectly, and it even came with BATTERIES INCLUDED!
HELP THE MAKER OUT
===================
Do you see anything in this video that you would like to get for yourself? If you do, please use one of the link(s) listed below to buy it from Amazon, and I will get a small commission. This encourages me and helps to support my career as a YouTube creator.
BILL OF MATERIALS:
=================
Bondhus 22199 Hex L-wrench Double PK, Long Length
12137 .050-3/8" & 12199 1.5-10mm
https://amzn.to/2SlaQDu
EXELAIR by Milton (EX99900) Digital Tire Pressure Gauge
Thursday, December 26, 2019
FOOLED When I Bought This Torque Wrench Online!
It's happened to everyone. I thought I found a fantastic deal and went for it, even though I had some misgivings about the exact details of the buy...but the tool was so inexpensive, I couldn't resist!
To my regret....
Update: BTW - The Monster Torque Wrench turned out to be an *EXCELLENT* breaker bar! (video coming soon)
Saturday, December 21, 2019
Some Tools You Will Probably Need For Making, Part I
In this video I go over what I feel is a solid way to approach accumulating enough tools to get most things done. HOWEVER, this approach does have a downside! It's very easy to end up with far TOO MANY tools than you actually need if you follow this method - I am speaking from experience here. :)
One of the things I have learned to do is list what tools I need BEFORE I go on a "Tool Safari", so I don't end up with all kinds of money languishing in the toolbox, on or under the tool bench. I guess the other way to go is to resign yourself to the fact that once you have mastered these techniques, you will end up with a zillion tools - and maybe have enough spares to get other MAKERS started, particularly the younglings among us.
The first thing I do is try to rationalize WHY I am buying a given tool. In other words, I try to enumerate in my mind exactly WHAT I am going to be doing with the tool, and see just how many projects that tool might be implicated in. Of course, there are many tools that will be used in almost *every* project - like screwdrivers, but other tools you may only need to use once or twice in a decade, those tools I now seek to rent or borrow, because they represent a sunk cost that I may never recover.
Finally, I prepare a list of the things I needed (both tools and consumables), have a look at what tools I already have around the house, cross off the ones I can substitute and ONLY THEN do I go out to buy tools.
1st Principle of Buying Tools: *NEVER* buy new if you can at all avoid it. Find out where to go to meet people who are liquidating their old tools FIRST, because I can show you how to make used tools "almost new" again in this and other videos.
2nd Principle of Buying Tools: If you have to buy new, buy *CHEAP*. It could be that your grandiose list of applications in the clear light of day, once you gain an appreciation of how difficult that tool is to master, or how difficult its applications are - and how infrequently or reluctantly you will be using it as a consequence. It's almost a certainty that if you do end up using a tool a LOT, you will exceed the tool you bought only after a considerable period of time, after which you will know which "perfect" make/model to buy, because you will have developed the seasoning with that tool (and its associated community) that informs such decisions.
3rd Principle of Buying Tools: After you have maxed out the cheap tool, buy the perfect tool because you will have earned the right to buy - but first think of buying a *USED* one that some other guy bought who didn't know about the Second Principle, bought the "top of the line" tool and then used it twice because he couldn't master it, its applications or lost the context to need it.
I find these principles help me to avoid buying tools I DON'T need, and help me to justify - to myself and to Mrs. Maker - that I have earned the right to buy tools I DO need!
One of the things I have learned to do is list what tools I need BEFORE I go on a "Tool Safari", so I don't end up with all kinds of money languishing in the toolbox, on or under the tool bench. I guess the other way to go is to resign yourself to the fact that once you have mastered these techniques, you will end up with a zillion tools - and maybe have enough spares to get other MAKERS started, particularly the younglings among us.
The first thing I do is try to rationalize WHY I am buying a given tool. In other words, I try to enumerate in my mind exactly WHAT I am going to be doing with the tool, and see just how many projects that tool might be implicated in. Of course, there are many tools that will be used in almost *every* project - like screwdrivers, but other tools you may only need to use once or twice in a decade, those tools I now seek to rent or borrow, because they represent a sunk cost that I may never recover.
Finally, I prepare a list of the things I needed (both tools and consumables), have a look at what tools I already have around the house, cross off the ones I can substitute and ONLY THEN do I go out to buy tools.
1st Principle of Buying Tools: *NEVER* buy new if you can at all avoid it. Find out where to go to meet people who are liquidating their old tools FIRST, because I can show you how to make used tools "almost new" again in this and other videos.
2nd Principle of Buying Tools: If you have to buy new, buy *CHEAP*. It could be that your grandiose list of applications in the clear light of day, once you gain an appreciation of how difficult that tool is to master, or how difficult its applications are - and how infrequently or reluctantly you will be using it as a consequence. It's almost a certainty that if you do end up using a tool a LOT, you will exceed the tool you bought only after a considerable period of time, after which you will know which "perfect" make/model to buy, because you will have developed the seasoning with that tool (and its associated community) that informs such decisions.
3rd Principle of Buying Tools: After you have maxed out the cheap tool, buy the perfect tool because you will have earned the right to buy - but first think of buying a *USED* one that some other guy bought who didn't know about the Second Principle, bought the "top of the line" tool and then used it twice because he couldn't master it, its applications or lost the context to need it.
I find these principles help me to avoid buying tools I DON'T need, and help me to justify - to myself and to Mrs. Maker - that I have earned the right to buy tools I DO need!
SAY WHAT!!? A *MYSTERY* Crankcase Cap That's Neither Metric, nor Imperial!
The other day the former owner of EZ-RIDER dropped by. He looked the bike over, gave me some encouraging words and then handed me a replacement Crankcase Cap and O-Ring that he had purchased from HONDA to replace the damaged one on the motorcycle.
Why a new cap? Because he was using it to replenish the OIL in the motor! But what about the filler cap / dipstick that the 1997 Honda Magna VT250CR has, you may ask? Well, I'm glad you asked....
The story goes like this: EZ-RIDER is heavily modified. One of the niftier modifications is an "old school" exhaust system that brings two tailpipes together on the right side of the motorcycle. Undeniably cool, this beautification came with one downside: The aftermarket exhaust completely blocks access to the oil filler cap / dipstick. There's NO WAY to get it out, save removing the exhaust!
So, the owner started to remove the crankcase cap instead, whenever he felt it necessary to top up the oil in the engine (hmmm....that sounds ominous...why would it need to be topped up?). Over time, he said, the "corners got rounded" on the crankcase cap (strange, that) to the point where he said he could not open it any more, so he ordered a replacement from Honda.
Then, he put the bike aside and replaced it with a Harley Davidson sportster. Weeks later, the replacement cap and o-ring arrived, so he collected them and put them on a shelf. Now, they have ended up with me. Pleased to no end, I happily accepted the new right crankcase cap and o-ring, but they came with a mystery - it seems that the right side crankcase cap is 16.5MM in size!
This is VERY WEIRD. I've never seen a fitting that accepted *neither* metric nor imperial sockets!
Have you?
Honda Crankcase Cap Part #:
11332-MZ5-000
Honda Crankcase Cap O-Ring Part #:
91301-ML7-003
Friday, December 20, 2019
Christmas Came A Week Early! I Got A TaoBao Hoard!
Christmas a week early! Watch as I open a bunch of mystery packages from TaoBao, our local version of eBay and Amazon rolled into one! Every package is labeled in Chinese, so I have absolutely no clue what is inside - so each box is an absolute delight to open! I have been carefully selecting these parts for weeks now, and finally put in the order for them...and waited...and waited...and waited - and then they arrived!
Ordering from China is always a bit of a gamble. You never know whether or not the picture was correct, the description was correct - or anything else EXCEPT THE PRICE. That, they never get wrong! But sometimes you don't get what you ordered, but rather what they had to give you.
Case in point. In this video I receive a set of bearings - but what I really ordered was a speedometer fitting for my front forks! OK - they are about the same price, but that's the ONLY resemblance between the two things - nothing else is even close to being the same!
That aside, I got a bunch of things I know I will need to complete the EZ-RIDER project - cables, handles, an air filter...and so much more! All in all, I had a great time opening all of the packages and inspecting what came.
I am already compiling my next order!
DON'T Buy A DT830D Multimeter!
From the MTMM Archives! A video I recorded a few years ago when I bought a cheap-o DT830D multimeter on a whim. Boy did I regret it as the meter turned out to be nothing but a *waste of time* as it could not even deliver the most basic functionality of all - a continuity test! Incredible!
In the end, after buying the meter, taking it apart, putting a battery in, putting it back together and then checking its ability to test continuity, I was left baffled by the fact that its resistance measurement was jumping all over the place.
I documented the experience and then moved on. But today I found that this meter was still being sold on the market, and I wanted to warn people about the risks involved with buying this meter, at least those which I experienced!
As a consequence of its unreliability, the DT830D meter is not a meter I can recommend, and this video documents why. If anyone can explain to me why the meter behaves this way, I would love to hear from you!
Instead, I went and bought a much more EXPENSIVE (but also much more reliable) meter from a FLUKE Authorized Dealer the Fluke 12B. This meter is no longer being produced, but I loved and and using it developed a respect in me for FLUKE products that remains to this day.
** I am not supported by paid by FLUKE in any way **
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)