DIY Flywheel Truing Stand
A flywheel truing stand is a nice luxury, but homemade units work just as well.
A length of 4" C-channel stock is the base of this DIY flywheel truing stand. The metal was cut with my Milwaukee Portaband.
The alignment of the two center bolts on the truing stand is not super-critical. They just provide the two points that the flywheels and shafts ride between.
The adjustable magnetic base allows many options as to where it can be mounted. It's best to clamp to a surface firmly, and as close as possible to the shaft.
Shop: Magnetic Base with Dial Indicator
I have dial indicators on both sides of the flywheel assembly. You can probably get by with one dial indicator, but you'd be moving it from side to side to get readings.
The indicator is positioned so the stem is parallel to the direction of component motion.
***********************
Truing vs Balancing
Truing is about how the two flywheels mate to each other. Balancing is about the actual weight of the flywheels, spoken in terms of grams.
Truing is done at the factory, as is balancing, but not to the same degree of precision as would be required for racing.
Truing is mandatory, balancing is optional.
***********************
Other Uses
Before I rebuilt the flywheel assembly on this 1965 Sportster, I modified the truing stand and checked the run-out on the sprocket shaft and pinion shaft.
Check Shaft Straightness
When rebuilding a vintage motorcycle transmission, it's a good idea to check the main-shaft and counter-shaft for straightness.
The picture below shows checking main-shaft straightness on the homemade flywheel truing stand.
This transmission main-shaft measured an acceptable run-out of .001". Anything past .003" is questionable.
***********************
Related Articles:
Motorcycle Engine Tools
Best Engine Assembly Lube
Best Digital Caliper For Engine Building
DIY Motorcycle Tools
Milwaukee Portaband Review
