I make my own jig to weigh the rods. I check to see if they are all within spec. The big end is considered the "Rotational" weight. The little end is the "Reciprocating" weight.
Here is a pic of the Connecting Rods spec card. I got the rods from PAW (has since gone out of business)
PROJECT 442: ASSEMBLING MY TWO PIECE BILLET SSIII WHEELS
When the frozen center and heated hoop are put together, they are left to cool for a few hours. Once they reach room temp they are stuck together in a pres fit.
This is all four done and ready to go out for TIG welding. The back sides will get welded together to make it one piece.
I plan to dress all four wheels in traditional SSIII Stripes and Olds Rocket Center Decals.
PROJECT 442: PICKED UP SOME ROLLER ROCKERS AND VALVE COVERS
Bending Brake Lines to get them to fit. I use zip ties to temporarily hold them for testing.
The drivers side was as easy as flipping the line around and using it backwards.
Both lines bent and positioned. The bracket is installed too.
Taking my index card and tracing it out on metal, I cut and bend my bracket. Then it's just weld a nut on to accept the bolt.
The bracket installed on one of the center section studs.
The two rear lines had to be cut and flared to work. I used Eastwood's flaring tool. It made short work of the lines. I practiced on some short pieces I made from what I cut off.
If you have stainless line and can flare off the car (this thing is big and goes in a vise) this tool works great! I practiced on 6-10 pieces before doing the final lines and they all turned out like this.
I was going to make my own brake line tabs, but Inline Tube sell these, so I just ordered a set of four.
I sanded the areas to weld to bare metal and then shot a coat of weld through primer on them.
Here are the brake line tabs and caliper hose brackets welded in place.
A shot of the 9 inch with the brake modifications done.
A pic of the rear with the lines, hoses, calipers, discs, and 18 inch wheel installed.
