Flexible hones are suitable for use on any type or size of cylinder. Built with a stiff metal stem, flexible nylon strands, and abrasive globules that come in a selection of grits and abrasive types, these honing tools are used in a variety of industries and applications. From plateau finishing and deglazing to edge blending and cross-hole deburring, the Flex-Hone provides a surface finishing solution for manufacturers, machinists, and mechanics.
Chainsaws and Cylinder Reconditioning
Chainsaw repair shops, loggers, and tree service equipment suppliers also use flexible hones to surface-finish engine cylinders. At ArboristSite.com, the largest tree care forum on the Web, a user named FXST asked for "some thoughts" on flexible honing, and suggested that using the Flex-Hone tool "should be standard practice" for cylinder reconditioning when replacing pistons and piston rings.
Bores and Tools for Stihl and Husqvarna Chainsaws
After a lively discussion about whether Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaws have chrome, chrome-plated aluminum, or Nikasil-coated bores, a user named Lakeside53 noted that he uses a 320-grit silicon carbide (SC) flexible hone on chainsaw engines with Nikasil bores. "It works great," he explained, adding that "several hundred saved cylinders" at his repair shop "speak for themselves."
Chainsaw Repair and Maintenance
Lakeside53 also helped to correct a misunderstanding about flexible honing. When another user warned against using the tool for longer than 10 seconds, Lakeside53 explained that this time limit is too strict, adding that "it's very hard to damage a Nikasil cylinder". Over-honing is not recommended, of course, but as our Flex-Hone instructions explain, the tool can be used for 20 - 45 seconds per cylinder.
Note: Brush Research discourages the use of Flex-Hones when plated cylinders have knicks or scores in the plating.
Lubrication and Cleaning for Chainsaws
When using a flexible hone with new or used chainsaw engines, Lakeside53 also emphasized the importance of lubrication and cleaning. Prior to use, generously lubricate the tool with 10-30 weight motor oil or specially-formulated Flex-Hone oil. After honing, thoroughly clean the cylinders with a soft nylon brush using warm water and detergent. After cleaning the engine cylinders, oil them to prevent corrosion.
Author's Note: This CR4 blog entry originally appeared in BRM's Flex-Hone blog.
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