grinningremlin
Active Member
It wasn't easy.First had to grind flats so the vise would hold it.Then I started with some fine diamond coated dremel bits, worked up to some larger rougher diamond bits, finishing off with a regular metal bit, (all on a drill press) and opened it up enough for a hand tap.The hand tapping was my first attempt at anything this hard, and I could see the bit twist a little, but I got it through, finished with a little steel wool and the bit, it's ugly but it works.ok grinningremlin, i'm going to put you on the spot now. any details on how you were able to tap the 5/16-24 thread dead center down that bore? did you hand tap or use a drill? i've located a 5M14X9 and a 5M15X9 HTD timing pulley, also from Ametric, and need some guidance since they weren't that cheap and i don't want to muck them up. worst comes to worst i'll take it to a machine shop but prefer to do it on my own because i plan on experimenting with different gears/engines. i was not able to find anyone that has used a #15 gear for the GEBE and was wondering if it was even advisable. my plan is to mount my Mitsubishi TLE-43 or Tanaka PF-4000 with the #15 gear. comments anyone?
It would be FAR easier to have a shop do the final tapping, or invest in a good bit set meant for this type boring.To sum up, it took a long time, a lot of work, and I can see why they're $32,.... but I'm still glad I can do it if needed.