June 19, 2008

Reaming Instructions: VB-FIX Not Required (Drill Jig)

For Sonnax Tool Kits with Drill Jigs

Prep and Set-up


1. Remove all components from the bore.
2. Clean the bore thoroughly in a solvent tank.
3. Securely clamp the housing to the bench, making sure not to clamp directly over the bore to be reamed.
4. Insert the reamer jig into the bore.
5. Soak the bore and reamer with cutting fluid (Mobilmet S-122, Lubegard®Bio-Tap, Tap Magic™, etc). For best results, provide a continuous flow of water-soluble cutting fluid (i.e. Mobilmet S-122) during the reaming process.
6. Gently insert the reamer through the jig and into the bore until the cutting tip contacts the first bore to be reamed.
7. Select the correct sized socket to fit the square shank of the reamer, and attach it to a wobble/swivel socket drive.


Reaming


1. The reamer should be turned either by hand using a speed handle or by a low rpm, high torque air drill regulated to a maximum of 200 rpm.
2. The reaming action should be clockwise in a smooth and continuous motion, at 60-200 rpm. The reamer should actually pull itself through the bore, so little or no forward force should be applied.
3. Continue reaming until the reamer stop is reached.


Finish and Clean-up


1. Using low air pressure, blow the chips free before removing the reamer.
2. To remove the reamer, turn clockwise while slowly pulling outward on the reamer.
3. Remove any remaining debris from the bore with low air pressure and clean in a solvent tank.
4. Examine the bore after cleaning for surface finish, debris, and burrs. Flashing and burrs on the exit side of casting bores can be carefully removed with a small piece of Scotchbrite™ on the end of a long wire.
5. Clean the reamer after each use and store in its protective tube.


Cautions and Suggestions


1. Turning the reamer backward will dull it prematurely.
2. Pushing on the reamer will result in poor surface finish and inadequate and sporadic material removal.
3. Never use a crescent wrench, ratchet or pliers to turn the reamer.
4. A dull reamer will cut a smaller hole. Reamers can be sharpened, but should only be done by a professional tool sharpener. Actual life of a reamer before resharpening or replacing averages 50-70 bores.

While Sonnax makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of technical articles at time of publication, we assume no liability for inaccuracies or for information which may become outdated or obsolete over time.