[TR] [6pack] Eastwood Spring Compressor

[Dave1massey at cs.com]

In a message dated 9/22/2009 9:07:59 PM Central Daylight Time, 
tr3driver at ca.rr.com writes: 
> Acme threads are stronger than V-threads of the same pitch and major
> diameter, because less of the diameter is taken up by the thread (larger
> minor diameter).  But the advantage mostly disappears when compared to
> V-threads of finer pitch; and oddly enough, standard V-threads are finer
> pitch than standard ACME threads.
> 
> I thought about using ACME rod; but Home Depot doesn't carry it, and the
> 3/4" V-thread rod I used is such total overkill anyway (tensile strength
> around 20,000 pounds) that it just didn't matter.  I guarantee it can pull
> your 3/8" ACME in half without even noticing the load (though I might need
> to get out the strong impact gun instead of the wimpy one).
> 

Another advantage to Acme rods is that they will last longer.  The threaded 
rod at the hardware stores is all grade 2 and with the locking threads 
(V-threads) they wear out.  The one I used was good for about two spring 
changeouts.  The ACME version has done at least 6 and look good as new.

The coarser pitch of the ACME thread is an advantage when using a hand 
wrench.  If you are going to use an impact wrench (which, BTW is advised against 
by the makers of store bought compressors) you will need a REALLY DEEP 
socket.

Maybe you can't buy ACME threaded rod off the shelf but McMaster-Carr will 
gladly drop some off on your door step tomorrow.

One other thing, ACME thread being the way it is, you can't double nut the 
top side and expect it to stay.  So I drilled a hole and use a pin to lock 
the top nut in place.

Dave