Where are we at?

[ScrapMetal]

Thanks for the offer (twist, twist ). Let's make sure we're all on the same page though, kind of what I had in mind though was for me just to rough out the cylinders and caps and let each member finish them up. This is my first engine build but (correct me if I'm wrong) the problem I see with the caps is that they need to be fitted to each cylinder much the same way that the pistons do. As each member is going to be fitting his cylinder/piston it would be tough for someone else to "finish" the cap. Maybe you could leave the part that fits to the cylinder a bit larger then each person could figure how to chuck it up to "fit" it or would that even be necessary? I don't know just how critical the fit of the cap is. I know it should be air-tight but how close does it have to be to make it such? (My flagrant display of ignorance! )

Does that sound correct or at somewhat reasonable? I'm up for suggestions as we can do this any way you want to or think would work best.

-Ron

[rleete]

Caps usually (but not always) have some sort of boss or register that fits in the bor to align it. Fit is NOT critical, and is usually left loose so you can remove the endcap without having to pry it off and possibly mar either piece.

Gasketing is sometimes used to provide a seal. I could include squares of .010" thick teflon (I get it from work) with the caps for people to use if they'd like. It trims easily with a razor or sharp knife. Plain oiled paper is also used. Neither is really necessary for a small engine like this. What you have, is a reasonably flat and smooth surface on the top of the cylinder. The cap has a similar face. They fit tight enough to provide sealing. Since these run at such low pressures (typically less than 10 PSI), sealing is not that important. If it leaks, it will probably leak on the port faces.

If the bore is supposed to be 1/2", the registration boss (called out as "slip fit into bore") would be around .495 or so. Or, if it's a concern, I could leave it off. I planed to use brass and polish the finished pieces. Let me know. I am flexible and will do whatever anyone specifies.

[ScrapMetal]

That sounds good to me. I would say to go ahead and start making the caps. It will be much appreciated ( ) as well as make my run at the cylinders much easier.

Best regards,

-Ron

[Turbinedoctor]

I am glade to see the frames have arrived, I just hope they are to spec and everything fits. I sent all of them including the one I am suppose to get (I think). Did'nt think about that until the day after I mailed them.

As to the cylinders and caps, ya'll decide what you want and I will follow.

Looking forward to seeing this thing come together and run.

[ScrapMetal]

I am glade to see the frames have arrived, I just hope they are to spec and everything fits. I sent all of them including the one I am suppose to get (I think). Did'nt think about that until the day after I mailed them.

As to the cylinders and caps, ya'll decide what you want and I will follow.

Looking forward to seeing this thing come together and run.

Thanks Durwood. They sure do look good! Don't feel too bad, you aren't the only one to send and "extra" or two along. I'm keeping track of who sent what and how many so that any extras get returned to their makers.

-Ron

[4R8]

G'day guys,

As Ron mentioned, I've been "out of touch" for a while.

Mainly setting things up with my new role across the country. Mostly in areas without any network (cell) coverage and the trailer mounted satellite dishes we use for communications are only just keeping up with a voice call.

Things should settle down from here, I'm heading interstate again in a couple of days and will be away for a three weeks followed by three weeks home. Definitely looking forward to that time off!
Following the three weeks home, I head off again for three weeks then have nine weeks home as we're expecting our second child.

Ron, If you have any issues with the pistons or kill any, I have no problem in spinning a couple more up within the schedule I've listed above.

It's been a long road for us so far and I believe it's coming up to 12 months. To finish this will be an amazing feat.

Thanks for the patience to date guys, greatly appreciated!

[Turbinedoctor]

My work schedule isn't as rough as yours but I can feel some of your pain. Working sift work, garden, one child getting ready for kollege and family time. I haven't been in my shop for three weeks now. Even if I had the time I don't have A/C and with temps hitting the 100's I can find better places to be.

Thanks for all you have done so far, keep in touch when you can and have safe travels.

[rleete]

Caps have been started, but are not done yet. Mail 8 parts, plus keep one for myself, right?

Scrapmetal, I need a mailing address. PM or email me at my home address.

[Hawkeye]

Isn't it just 6 parts to mail?

This is coming together nicely. We'll have to post pics and videos of the engines running. If you don't have a compressor, even a balloon with a valve should get in a test run.

[pjf134]

Send 7 parts and keep one if I remember right. Original 8 members, one dropped out (David U.) and one added late (rleete), so still 8 members.
Paul