My Engine Projects

Oh yeah, they're all good runners.

I was a machinist before I became an engineer. I've spent the last 14 years without machinery and now I'm making up for lost time.

John

Tim

I thank you for that compliment but need to explain something. I've tried what you suggested years ago when I was restoring old motorcycles (my other hobby). I'll tell you something, at least for myself, nothing ruins an enjoyable hobby more that trying to make a living at it. The excitment quickly fades when you're suddenly on the hook to deliver something within an agreed time limit. Friends turned customers make for some unpleasant feelings too. No, I'll keep my hobby seperate from my profession thanks, I can enjoy both that way. My wife tells me I'm a perfectionist all the time talking about my hobby, says I'm too picky. I told her that my hobby is the one thing I get to do and have to answer to no one. I can have it exactly the way I want it and don't have to worry about the boss wanting changes or whether I'm late or over budget. I can walk out of the shop when I please and never go back if I so desire. Nope! My hobby is my hobby, and my job is my job and they're just like east and west.

As far a teaching and passing it along. Anyone is welcome to ask and learn, but I've been in that situation too, and I won't make any effort to seek them out. You've got to want it, and if you want it bad enough you'll go find it. I've had people get offended because I've tried to help, so they can come to me, but I stay put.

Thanks again,

I've got to agree. There is nothing quite as rewarding as teaching somebody who wants to learn,

and nothing so frustarting as trying to teach somebody who does not want to learn

...been there, done that...

flying fumble fingers here

Awesome!!

Andy

I have a few drawings of engine plans that were published in model magazines and Engine Collectors Journels. Also plans for pulse jets and a 5 cylinder Radial Kinner. If you are interested I'll make copies for the cost of copies and postage.

Tom Wilk - Duluth, MN
a wanna-be machinist

I'd be interested in the pulse jets, how many and how much?

Thanks,

may I please know what lathe / mill / drill machine you are using? I am currently looking at the sherline brand. Would u recommend any?

Thanks.

I'm using a mini-lathe and a mini-mill from Harbor Freight. Of course There would be much more expensive epuipmant I'd like to have, but for use as hobby only stuff these little machines are pretty nice, but no frills.

Randy,
Harbor Freight has a couple mini-lathe and mini-mill models. I am thinking of getting one for making/modifying engine parts. Based on your experience, could you please tell me which models you have or would recommend? Also are there any specific accesory tools you would recommend? Thanks in advance for any assistance.
DennisV

I have the 2 base machines. I wish I'd gone up to the next bigger mill. Little Machine Shop.com has 14" beds for the lathe and I'll probably buy one.

I have a surline mill & lathe. If I were looking at getting started I'd look at the lathe & Mill from Micro-Mark. A bit bigger and a bit less money. go to www.micromark.com.
The lathe is 7 x 14 vs Shurline at 3.5 x 9.

Tom Wilk

send me an email off line

[email protected]

Tom

Could this be a good choice for hobbyist?

I know guys that have these and do wonderful work on them. I prefer dedicated machines myself. I really depends on what you want to do with it and remember as you go along you may want to do more involved projects and find yourself with an inadequate machine.