Having the ability to run a higher extrusion multiplier on the first layer can be handy for getting a better finish. I print a lot of PETG on the textured plate and a higher multiplier helps ensure the first layer flows out nice and doesn’t leave any tiny holes or outlines between lines. Read more...
I primarily print single color prints but I have a MMU3 installed atop my Core One via a CoreBoxx because I like to use it as a color selector for keeping 5 of my most used filaments loaded. Read more...
I’ve come to the realization that unless a body panel is covered in epoxy primer and in good enough shape that you could start on body filler then the metalwork isn’t actually done. The XJ is still a long ways away from being ready for filler but asking myself this question when working on each panel has been a handy litmus test for me to tell when it’s actually “done” (ok maybe a better phrase would be good enough). Read more...
With my side gig of selling 3d printed parts slowly taking off, I figured it was time to pick up a thermal printer for making shipping labels. I was worried this be easier said than done since I run Pop!_OS on my laptop but as it turns out Rollo (one of the popular budget friendly printer manufacturers out there) has full linux support and even offers official drivers. Read more...
I’ve been having some fun dipping my toes into the realm of homelabbing and decided it was time to build a proper NAS. I used to back up my data between my two laptops using Syncthing and I felt fairly safe with that setup because if one laptop died I’d still have all the data on the other laptop. Read more...
It’s taken much longer than anticipated but with the outer quarter panel welded in I was finally ready to install the 2x6 rocker. Back in May of 2024 I did most of the prep work so all I really had to do now was the final steps of welding in the 2x6. Read more...
One of the last big TODOs left on the driver side was to rebuild the quarter panel. Welding a panel in is moderately easy but ensuring it’s properly aligned is hard. Since the driver side was also missing the inner wheel well / lower structure of the quarter I had less reference points to work with which made me slightly nervous. Read more...
Enough measuring for now, it’s time to do some assembly and get the crank, pistons, and rods installed. Overall assembly of the bottom end isn’t super complicated, but it’s important to be careful while assembling everything. Read more...
The ultimate list of torque specs for VTEC B-series engines (B16, B18C1, B18C5, B18C, etc...) Read more...
With the bearing clearances dialed in, all that’s left to prep for installing the crank, pistons, and rods in the block is double checking the piston to wall clearance and setting the ring gaps. Read more...