The Home Machinist!

I am trying to thread 3/16, 1/4, 5/16 tubing and it isn't going well. For instance, I need thread both ends of a 2" length of 1/4" tubing... I've tried copper and brass. How in the heck are you guys holding the pipe so you can thread it without marking/marring? I have a Sherline lathe; the...

Carl B, I'm on it! Great idea. Thanks. I have 2, will do both that way. I would like to find 1 more so that all 3 match.

SZulderveen, I'd like 3 when they are ready. Make the top cover with a much larger hex than are shown on the one I have.

Does anyone recognize this boiler check valve, and who the manufacturer is/was?

Ah. Strange video, but I get it. Interesting!

https://youtu.be/aUTjVovpKvA

How does it work? Looks like an air connection on the globe, is the bent brass tab a way to depress the brass plunger? What is that brass plunger?

An update: I, like many of you, have bought and sold successfully on eBay over the many years. I have had a few run-ins with scams but never lost money. This situation with the Maxitrak locomotive auction has worked out fine, the offer/listing was legitimate and the transaction has been successful. ...

Thanks Bill, good to know.

Thank you for the reply Slipped Eccentric. I sent you a PM.

Yes, I can see that would be ideal. However, I have turbulators on RMI Forney, they work great. I’m sure there are efficiencies vs. the ideal, but they definitely do the job. Low fuel consumption, no odor... lots of steam.

Greetings, Does anyone out there live within a short drive of Williamsport, PA? I successfully bid on Maxitrak loco from a seller there. His profile and activity checked out fine. I will be near there on business in 6 weeks so pickup made sense. However, communication just got strange and “Nigerian”...

Thanks for the comments. It would make sense that the injector and check valves be matched/compatible in terms of pathway diameters.