Funny enough, I use a Dremel 100% of the time. I don't prefer die grinders on these because I'm the kind of guy that doesn't like the torque they deliver. I've scratched up side plates before using tools like that and you've got to be uber-mega-ultra careful. Since the Dremel is more RPM based and doesn't have V8 torque behind it, I use it to fine-edge everything. The tools I use are on 1/8" and 3/32" shanks. I get them primarily from http://www.widgetsupply.com . I use 60 grit sanding bands, 120 grit, then I go to some custom made flapwheels and flapwheel makers.



On the intake ports, I stay at 120 grit and leave the port walls and outlet curves slightly rough for the reasons you said. Theoretically, having a slight boundary layer keeps the mixture more turbulent (but not in a bad way to lose efficiacy) so the mixture is more thoroughly even and distributed.



B

 

I originally started mine with a dremel, but after I got a hold of some good carbide burrs for a pneumatic tool I was hooked on them. They cut so quickly I was having too much fun. Thanks for the input Brian.

 

That's the reason why I tend to shy away from them. As far as I look at it, it's a trade off: Longer period of time for more precise and even cutting/sanding vs. shorter labour time for quicker, potentially less even and less precise cutting/sanding



B

 

I did strike the center plate on the face about 5 times. They were small spots and I was able to block sand them out. That would cause an engine to smoke correct?

 

Depending on where it is. I'd say it's doubtful. If anything, it will technically cause blow-by (combustion face to combustion face) but doubtfully anything you'd feel.



B

 

I have a question/suggestion. Is there a place where I can see a collection of pics where people have messed up port jobs? I mean, I hear of people cutting through this, and hitting that, but I have no real perspective on what that really means. And there are many pictures of nice port jobs. But are there pictures of botched jobs? The failures are where the learning happens!

 

I'll take a pic of my test housing tomorrow. It had a bad coolant passage so I wanted to see how far I can go.

 

I can get a pic showing why you shouldn't port down on the primaries per the RB template!!

 

I am seeing a trend in the ports posted by experienced builders: primary ports not taken down very far towards the tail, gradual port opening and abrupt port closing (the flat top). What is the reasoning behind this port shape? It appears to be a common port.

 

templates have been mentioned a great deal..

racing beats have been mentioned with negativity..

mazdatrix.. possibly ito.. any others..

im lookin to start but need direction as to whose template to use..