Happy New Year!
With the '65 kingpin bushing needing reamed as a backdrop - I decided I would bring out all of the taps, dies, cutter, reamers, easy-outs, etc. that I had found during cleanup. They were scattered about in several boxes where I had collected them. This is the first I've had them all together on the table to see what I actually have - and I still haven't figured out what I actually have. I did find an adjustable reamer that would work in diameter, but it falls short of the length required to ensure both bushings are reamed in parallel. Drawing board again. About ready to eat $300 for K-D master king pin reamer set.
Back to what I do have. I would like any comments/perspective you have regarding their cleaning. I would imagine as much care as possible should be taken as not to further dull them. I personally like the vinegar method to clean, as it gives me some level of control over the process and the end result is acceptable in most cases. I'm just not clear if there is a risk of further damage in their cleaning (outside not wanting to put them in a box and shake them).
My apologies in advance for the poor quality pictures today. It is cold, dark, and rainy here.
A broad view of the group
I have these grouped together because they are of the same size. They are small diameter (neglected to measure). I do think this may be the mixings of two sets.
Just slightly larger (in the 2 to 2-1/4 range). This type appears to be much different than the others I've seen or used. There are teeth/cutter inserts that go in on the backside of the die. Can anybody here further educate me on the why, what, how of this?
A view of some of these "inserts" I speak of:
and a view of the backside of the die with the inserts installed
This style is ever so slightly larger than the previous, does not include the inserts on the backside of the die, and have a "split" in each of the dies - seemingly by design. Again, I'd appreciate any education that may be afforded here.
an up-close view of the split
This set larger in diameter than the last - likely closer to 2-1/2"
The orphans - I have no idea what this hex shaped die may fit. I have them stacked by size, and as you can see there are various sizes.
And then there is THIS GUY! Strangest die I've seen. It was all alone, with nothing apparent to match.
A view of the tap holders/wrenches
The tap collection. I'm finding mostly GTD (EDIT: Greenfield Tap & Die?) out of Greenfield Mass. Still researching. I've realized I need to better understand taps, which are used for what, why they are so variant in length.
I think/hope its fair to call these all reamers
We call them "Easy Outs" - I suppose technically they're extractors. I'm not real clear on the 2nd from the right. It may well be a reamer.
This is a box I found a few of the taps/dies inside. I don't recognize it, can't find a makers mark outside the graphic which is mostly gone, and not having luck in my quick research. I'd be interested to know if anybody recognizes it.
