[Farmall] Tap / Die Set

[Mike Sloane]

Tough question to answer! If all you need to do is chase existing 
threads, then you can get by with a cheap (Chinese Harbor Freight) set 
with a handful of the standard US thread sizes up to maybe 3/4". But if 
you ever need to do anything more, it would probably make sense to buy a 
decent set in the $60-70 range. You are not likely to need the kind of 
quality that a machinist needs to cut new threads in steel and cast 
iron. Just like any other similar effort, there are "tricks" that make 
the job go easier and save the tools from breaking, and I am sure that 
you can find all kinds of useful guidance with a Google search. 
Generally, if the tap or die are having a tough time, you don't just 
keep forcing the tool, but back off every couple of turns and then go 
forward. Also, lubrication is important - usually light oil for 
steel/iron and kerosene for cast iron. Keep the tool clean and tight in 
the holder. But I am sure others will chime in with their suggestions.

Mike

Tony Pitts wrote:
> Hello,
> 
> I am nearing a phase where I may start to put my F-20 together.
> Before I do, I think I should be chasing the threads and the like.  I
> have never used or owned a tap & die set.  How large a set do I need
> and what should I be looking for?
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Tony
> 
> 
> ------------------------------------------ Tony Pitts Ann Arbor, MI 
> http://www.oldengine.org/members/pitts/mbf 
> ------------------------------------------ Hudson Mills Old Power
> Club 14th Annual Show June 3-5, 2005 Dexter, MI 
> http://www.hudsonmills.org 
> _______________________________________________ Farmall mailing list 
> http://www.antique-tractor.com/mailman/listinfo/farmall
> 
> 

-- 
Mike Sloane
Allamuchy NJ
mikesloane at verizon.net
Website: <www.geocities.com/mikesloane>
Images: <www.fotki.com/mikesloane>

"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I
learn." -Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790); US politician and scientist.


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