Alignment

Feb 28, 2015
224
1
16
10
Could someone please suggest a tool or a system to guarantee PERFECT location of the rear wheels? Measuring by ruler gets it close, but I want something that is DEAD-ON accurate. If you have a link as to where I can buy the tool, that would great. Thx BBU
 
I use an edge finder in the mill.
http://www.amazon.com/Mitutoyo-050101-Edge-Finder-Shank/dp/B002SG7PPC

A good fence and stop block setup would likely be better than a ruler. I believe D4D posted pics of a fixture he made for the job. At least I think it was D4D, sorry if I'm wrong!
 
You should consider the GoatBoy Drill Guide, but Ian only does limited production runs on that tool. It will guarantee the height and the angle (3deg) of the rear axle holes, as well ensure that they are across from each other. It is always up for debate whether this is the optimum recommendation. Pros: absolutely consistent between cars with the generally approved recommendations as to where to drill the holes. Cons: no adjust-ability. I have one myself (and like it/use it a lot) as it does remove a variable in the build process and allows me to focus on the other aspects of a build. I think you can achieve similar results with the right type of fence and if it is used correctly. The Down4Derby fence takes the guess work out of the Bullet after it is setup, which is also a nice way to go. Its all a preference.

There is another here who is selling a similar drill guide if Ian does not have any for sale, but I have no experience with it.

PLEASE - do not use the DW drill guide while "propping" up on side of the block with a drill bit to get the angle if you are serious about racing. I have been down this road and it works to some degree, but it will be nearly impossible to compete at the level necessary for racing in this league.
 
One of these come in really handy:

http://www.amazon.com/Incra-BNDRUL12-12-Inch-Precision-Bend/dp/B0000DD2U8/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1429114343&sr=8-5&keywords=incra+rule

One technique that I use is set the distance on my combination square. Set my fence to the proper depth from the bottom then use the square with the distance locked to set the distance from the end of the silver bullet. I think QT has a picture doing something similar that I will link if I find it.



With this method you really don't even need a mark on the opposite side for an axle hole. Your fence stays fixed once in place. You just use the square to mark in your distance from the back of the jig to the side of the drill bit.
 
I think Bracketracer has the right idea. I ordered an edge finder today. The first time I tried one I broke it. I learned you need to have it close to the edge of material before turning the drill press power on otherwise it spins apart and breaks.
 
pony express said:
I think Bracketracer has the right idea. I ordered an edge finder today. The first time I tried one I broke it. I learned you need to have it close to the edge of material before turning the drill press power on otherwise it spins apart and breaks.

Too much rpm maybe? I use it at 275 rpm, I think they only are good for 1000 rpm max.
 
I looked at my Mill, but could not figure out where that nifty tool goes. Maybe I need to update?

old-mill.jpg