[DeTomaso] Torque plates

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 11/18/07 19 26 16, jab at cisco.com writes:


> The plates are used to deform the block (as would happen when a head is
> installed) when you bore/hone the block.
> 

To simplify even further:

Most engine builders (and indeed, manufacturers) bore round holes in the 
engine block for the pistons to slide up and down in.   The problem is, when the 
cylinder heads are attached and tightened down, the torque of the bolts going 
into the block distorts it slightly, rendering the round bores not so round 
anymore.

Port plates replicate cylinder heads.   They are set atop the block, and 
torqued to the same spec.   This distorts the block, and THEN the holes are bored 
through the plate.   When the plates are removed, the holes are no longer, 
strictly speaking, round.   But when the engine is fully assembled with the 
heads, they are once again perfectly round--just the way you'd want them to be.

It's just a nice, extra bit of attention to engine-building detail. :>)

Mike


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