Big End Bearing and Boiler Tube.

The most recent development is the appearance of the big end bearing I received for Father’s Day—it finally made its way onto the milling machine. As expected, it was oversized all around, with the usual tapered side walls (draft angles) to allow it to be removed from the mould. I thought it was quite large, but apparently, it's a replacement for a previous version that was too small, which had prompted many complaints from builders. So, I suppose in this case, bigger is better than too small.

As for the boiler tube mentioned in the title, I originally planned to modify a pub-style gas cylinder as a mock-up. However, it proved difficult to cut, and I ended up running out of oxygen in my BOC Portapack (oxy-acetylene setup). Then I remembered that my nephew owns a plasma cutter—and being eager to help, he was more than happy to have a go at burning off the top and bottom for me.

Having received the new tube back, there is a snag. I could not accurately measure the tube until one end had been cut off. I had roughly measured it and new it was slightly oversized but was expecting the wall thickness to allow for some machining to size. It turns out that it wasn't as thick as I was hoping for and so will not do the job I intended it for so its back to plan B. (shame) would make a lovely boiler for a larger 3" engine like a McLaren.

    Until next time, stay safe in the workshop, make plenty of swarf, and keep building!

Stephen.