Rod cap alignment tool

[powerabout]

I think the factory used the spring loaded up to the looper when the extra torque could move the cap, dunno?
F1 v8 needed the tool so they must of had it way back in the early 80's?

[baja200merk]

I’ve aligned 100s of Rods and the 3/8s bolts are 60+ftlbs. If they don’t align i throw the rod in the scrap pile and grab another. Ive never had a rod bearing fail.

[powerabout]

I’ve aligned 100s of Rods and the 3/8s bolts are 60+ftlbs. If they don’t align i throw the rod in the scrap pile and grab another. Ive never had a rod bearing fail.

Is that without a tool, using the spring loaded one or the clamped one?

[baja200merk]

I have Never used the tool.

[H2OPERF]

IMO it's Best to put the rods together before you have them in the block to see how they fit inside and out. Sometimes they are not perfect on the outside edges but are good on the inside surface..this will keep you from driving your self nuts trying to get it dead nuts on when its really ok...New ones usually drop right together... used not allways the case , the big rod caps do seem to be spread abit with heat/load iguess, one side will be perfect the other a slight over bite on the cap ..if you tighten it like that imo its junk. Like baja said if you have another that fits better use it. I have never used that thing either But do use a small clamp to get the cap drops right on if ones out tiny abit.. then light side to side tightening with a 1/4 ratchet to get it right before putting any real pressure on it..I'm sure everyones got a method...Dave

[Captain75]

Any pics from the guide /instruction?

[71V153]

I just put the bolts in'n tighten em up? ...

[Captain75]

Ok, got a hang of it now!
The tool is very easy to use, however as always one of the rods is giving me a hard time...
Thought of taking the rubber bushing that supports the jaw on one side away and replace it with a solid one, iot be able to force the rod and cap to perfect alignment.

[racer]

Should be a hard plastic never seen one with rubber. The tool is not meant to push a spread cap back.

[Captain75]

Should be a hard plastic never seen one with rubber. The tool is not meant to push a spread cap back.

Mine is definately rubber!
Therefore it is not possible to torque the preassure bolt tight. If you do the rubber starts to bulge out between the frame and the jaw.
I just torque it a bit more than snug with a 1/4 ratchet.
Do you think I would benefit from making a plastic bushing instead?