so my block is back from the machine shop, I have all the parts gathered finally..

all thats left is to re-assemble it..

the only thing is I don't have a ring filer to cut the rings..

I've heard it can be done by locking a bastard file in a vice and filing from outside-in doing it that way..

living on the other end of the globe, means ordering one will take 2 wks easily..
and i'll probably never use it again after this..so not really worth the investment.

have any of you done it this way?

also I hear contradicting methods... some say u should file both sides of the ring simultaneously others say do only one side,

example:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pf1rbqliYjk

 

A ring filer like the one you show is the preferred tool. Yes it is specialized like allot of automotive tools are but when needed it is advised to use. Improvisational tools can be used but require a more tedious approach. Measuring and setting end gaps I think is one of the steps to making a successful build.

 

I just feel u would possibly have more burs doing it by hand.

 

I used a Dremel tool and then a file to de-burr.

 

i do one side, but iver never had to take off awhole lot either. take your time with filing it down u can snap them rings quick if you rush it. keep it lubed up and keep checking it often. I use a flat snap on File its about 4 inches long by just under 3/8s wide, i finish it up with a smooth grit sand paper with oil or a small stone.

 

Just to add because I have been reading some people don't on the subi forum, but do you Evo guys use a torque plate when installing rings?

 

No. Torque plate is used when the block is being bored and honed.

David

 

I learned to use a file to do it in auto school, but we werent building high performance engines

 

so you guys just locked it in a vice with the end sticking out and then dragged the rings across it?

did u guys "spread" the ring as u filed it? or did u twist it?

 

what if u were to fix the dremel and use it's cut off wheel as the ring filer?

 

i seriously wouldnt do it by hand.. take them to a machine shop if you must.. they will probably do em for $10 a piece for you.. just give them the gaps you want done. you'll have to lug your block with you tho for best accuracy.

 

I use the same file as shown in the video, and only file one side of the ring

 

some subi builders have showed that the ring gaps will change when the head is torqued to spec.