I had a little extra time this weekend so I figured I'd get the rods ready to send in for conversion to insert bearings. I didn't have my manual with me (I'm working in my Dad's shop)so I figured I can't mess too much up by just taking the pistons off of the rods. So, I clamped the rod in the vise the long way so I could grip it as close to where the clamp bolt is as possible and proceded to remove the bolts, wrist pins, etc.
When I got home, I noticed in my manual the fancy holding device for holding the piston/rod assembly when tightening the clamp bolt and the warning to the effect of "Do not clamp the rod in a bench vise or you run the risk of twisting the rod." They also show a fancy device for checking if a rod's bent or twisted.
I highly doubt any of this equipment is still around so what's a hobbyist supposed to do when loosening/tightening the clamp bolts on the rods? Is it likely I tweaked my rods in the process and I shouldn't use them or do they check and correct any possible twists when they machine them for the inserts? If the shop makes sure they're true, then how do you hold them when you tighten the clamp bolt when attaching the pistons and pins? I also didn't see a torque spec for the clamp bolt in my manual. Does anyone know what that should be? Thanks, Shawn
