238 replies to this topic

[Hermit #1]

Rick, could that cutter be resharpened or polished? What is it made from, HSS, carbide, or some other material?

That tool is definitely HSS - yes, they can be resharpened when they get dull, but it's best done in a tool grind shop.  Odds are that it would be cheaper just to buy a new one.

[dc-65x]

As an apprentice I went through the tool room and the master tool and cutter grinder could resharpen or reshape almost anything. This HSS tool will have an easy life cutting only brass. It should last longer than I will.

[Bill from NH]

I was wondering if this one was really sharp since it was mentioned it  cut rough. Is a cut using a drill or drillpress any smoother than when using it by hand?

[dc-65x]

It didn't cut as smooth as butter but it was a bit rougher than I'd prefer. With its pilot guiding the way it did make a square cut. I'm going to try the 3 flute version next  order.

[Pablo]

I've always wanted a way to straighten the axle tube cuts on the inside of retro motor brackets.

It inspired me to try making a custom "tool" of my own. If it fails, I think I'll try one of yours, Rick.

 

Here is what I envision, something like this:

 

 

with a circle of about 150 grit on it's face, like this diamond facing tool:

 

 

attach it to the axle and spin it with a drill:

 

 

If it fails, PayPal will save the day

[Bill from NH]

Self-stick sandpaper is available in a number of different grits. It usually comes in packs of discs (5-6" dia) rather than rectangular sheets. I have grits from 80 -220+. It should be real easy to cut/punch out a round disc to fit on a gear hub face. You could use ordinary sandpaper & an adhesive too.

[Pablo]

Thanks, Bill. If you know of a way to make perfect 1/8" holes in it, please send me an email

[Dennis David]

Can't you use an 1/8" hole puncher?

[Pablo]

Absolutely. But, how much are they, and will it cut through 150 sandpaper with adhesive backing ?

[dc-65x]

The abrasive nature of the paper will most likely wear a hole punch out quickly.

[Rick]

Like this Pablo?

 

[Pablo]

Exactly.

That looks like about 80 grit ?

If the experiment fails, I'll just get what Rick suggested.

But his won't fit in between an inline bracket.

[Rick]

Exactly.

That looks like about 80 grit ?

If the experiment fails, I'll just get what Rick suggested.

But his won't fit in between an inline bracket.

????? why wouldn't it fit on your hub, it's in there now? Only adds .032. Put your cordless drill on it and sand away............

[Pablo]

You misunderstood me, Rick B.

I only asked what grit it was.

 

The tool dc-65x has won't fit inside an inline bracket.

Clear now ?

 

Sorry for drift, Rick T.

If it gets to the point you don't think it pertains, let me know.

It may be a while before I have time to do this experiment.

Your tool is definitely something I need.

[dc-65x]

Here's the tool for you Pablo. It would clean up the bearing tubes on the insides of the motor bracket you picture. It's a reverse spot facing tool:

 

 

I slide the 1/8" pilot shaft through the bearing, slip on the cutter head, pull it against the offending axle bearing tube and turn on the pistol drill......done!

 

I did a quick search on eBay and found this cutter:

 

REVERSE SPOT FACING TOOL

 

I couldn't figure out from the listing if the pilot shaft comes with the cutter head or not. You'd have to look into it.

 

 

[Pablo]

Very cool, thanks Rick

The shipping charge for this small tool is $14.09, that's robbery.

But if my experiment fails, I'm going for it. What price fun ?

[dc-65x]

Okie Dokie Pablo. Don't forget to check on the required pilot shafts too.

[Pablo]

I hear you

[Dennis David]

Man you guys got tools for everything.

[munter]

I have recently started my own journey regarding slot car size appropriate power tools and have just reread this thread.

 

There is a lot to learn here.

 

Thanks to Rick and all contrubutors to the thread.

 

 

I guess Rick must have all the tools now as the thread stalled over five years ago.

[dc-65x]

Hi John,

 

I'm glad you find the thread useful and I'm really glad Photobucket has restored my pictures. 

 

Funny thing, I stepped up and upgraded to their most expensive account and a real person started answering my email requests for help.    

[mgerbetz]

YES!!
Glad your photos have been restored.
This post series rocks!
MG

[dc-65x]

I've got a couple of things I really like but have not shared yet. Here's the first one, a precision toolmaker's vise. :

 

 

No cutting, pounding or soldering on this. I use it mainly to square things up like putting a padlock motor back together:

 

 

It's also helpful in keeping the thin Mabuchi can from bowing out when installing aftermarket top and bottom magnet clips. Put in both clips then release the tension evenly:

 

 

I don't remember where I bought mine so I can't vouch for the one in the link below but it's similar looking to mine. There are also smaller ones that are a bit cheaper:

 

3" x 3" Premium Super Precision Grinding Toolmaker Vise

[TSR]

Looks like the $80.00 and free shipping is about the best price for this tool right now. I use an old 5" American made grinding vise I must have had for like 40 years, for doing the same jobs.
But I have hunted lately and such older tools are getting pricey... 

[dc-65x]

Hi Philippe,

 

Yes the little precision ground vise is expensive. Mine is 3" wide but the 2" and 2 1/2" versions are cheaper in the $50 to $60 range.

 

Let there be light!     My newest acquisition was replacing my rickety old desk lamps with some neato 40" swing arm lamps with both a 100W incandescent and fluorescent ring style bulb.

 

 

 

Ledu L445WT Professional fluorescent/incandescent swing arm clamp-on lamp, 40 reach, white