Rebuilding an engine can be a rewarding experience, but getting the cylinder finish just right is critical for proper ring seating and optimal performance. A good cylinder hone tool is essential for achieving that perfect surface finish. I’ve used several over the years, and choosing the right one can save you time, money, and a whole lot of frustration. So, let’s take a look at some of the best cylinder hone tools available today.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone: Best overall for ease of use and consistent results.
- Lisle 30000 Cylinder Hone: Budget-friendly option for standard-sized cylinders.
- Speedway Motors Cylinder Hone Kit: Versatile kit with multiple stones for different cylinder sizes.
- OEMTOOLS 25036 Cylinder Hone: Heavy-duty construction for demanding jobs.
- Summit Racing SUM-900200 Cylinder Hone: Good value with a wide honing range.
Top 5 Best Cylinder Hone Tool Reviews
1. Flex-Hone Cylinder Hone
The Flex-Hone is a unique tool that uses abrasive globules attached to flexible filaments. It’s incredibly easy to use and provides a consistent, smooth finish in cylinder bores. It self-centers and is very forgiving, making it great for beginners.
Pros:
- ✅ Self-centering design is easy to use.
- ✅ Creates a consistent, smooth finish.
- ✅ Works well with various cylinder materials.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than traditional hones.
- ❌ Abrasive wears down over time.
- ❌ Can be messy, requiring ample honing oil.
Verdict: If you’re looking for the easiest and most consistent way to hone your cylinders, the Flex-Hone is the way to go, especially if you’re new to engine building.
2. Lisle 30000 Cylinder Hone
The Lisle 30000 is a more traditional cylinder hone that uses three adjustable stones. It’s a cost-effective option for deglazing and honing cylinders to a specific size. It’s a reliable tool for basic honing tasks.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Simple and effective design.
- ✅ Durable construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires more skill to use properly.
- ❌ Can be difficult to keep stones aligned.
- ❌ Limited honing range.
Verdict: The Lisle 30000 is a solid choice for those on a budget who have some experience with cylinder hones.
3. Speedway Motors Cylinder Hone Kit
This kit from Speedway Motors provides a versatile solution for various cylinder sizes. It includes multiple stone sets, allowing you to adapt to different bore diameters. I like the flexibility it offers for different projects.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile with multiple stone sets.
- ✅ Covers a wide range of cylinder sizes.
- ✅ Good value for the price.
Cons:
- ❌ Stone quality may not be as high as individual hones.
- ❌ Requires careful adjustment to ensure even honing.
- ❌ The included case may not be the most durable.
Verdict: If you work on different engines with varying cylinder sizes, this kit offers excellent versatility and value.
4. OEMTOOLS 25036 Cylinder Hone
The OEMTOOLS 25036 is built for heavy-duty use. Its robust construction ensures durability and long life, even under demanding conditions. I’ve seen these used in professional shops, which says a lot about their reliability.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable and robust construction.
- ✅ Provides consistent honing performance.
- ✅ Suitable for high-volume use.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options.
- ❌ May be overkill for occasional use.
- ❌ Requires a powerful drill for optimal performance.
Verdict: For those who need a reliable and durable hone for frequent use, the OEMTOOLS 25036 is an excellent investment.
5. Summit Racing SUM-900200 Cylinder Hone
The Summit Racing SUM-900200 offers a good balance between price and performance. Its wide honing range makes it suitable for various engine types, and it’s generally easy to use. I’ve found it to be a reliable option for general engine work.
Pros:
- ✅ Good value for the price.
- ✅ Wide honing range.
- ✅ Easy to adjust.
Cons:
- ❌ Stone quality could be better.
- ❌ May require some break-in period for optimal performance.
- ❌ Adjustment mechanism could be more precise.
Verdict: The Summit Racing SUM-900200 is a solid all-around choice for those looking for a good value and a versatile honing range.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cylinder hone tool depends on several factors. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the best decision:
- Cylinder Material: Different materials require different types of stones. Cast iron, aluminum, and Nikasil cylinders each have specific needs.
- Cylinder Size: Ensure the hone’s honing range matches your cylinder bore diameter.
- Desired Finish: The type of finish you need depends on the piston rings you’re using. Consult your ring manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Experience Level: If you’re new to engine building, a self-centering hone like the Flex-Hone is easier to use.
- Budget: Cylinder hones range from budget-friendly to professional-grade. Determine how much you’re willing to spend.
- Type of Hone: Consider ball hones (like Flex-Hone), stone hones, and glaze breakers. Each serves a different purpose and offers different results.
- Stone Grit: The grit of the honing stones determines the surface finish. Finer grits are used for final finishing, while coarser grits are used for material removal.
Also, always use plenty of honing oil during the honing process. This helps to keep the stones clean, lubricates the cylinder walls, and removes debris. You can use specialized honing oil or a mixture of mineral oil and kerosene.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of honing a cylinder?
A: Honing creates a specific surface finish that allows piston rings to seat properly and seal against the cylinder walls. It also helps to remove any glaze or imperfections from the cylinder bore.
Q: How do I know when to replace the stones on my cylinder hone?
A: Replace the stones when they become worn, glazed, or chipped. Worn stones will not cut effectively and can damage the cylinder walls.
Q: Can I use a cylinder hone on aluminum cylinders?
A: Yes, but you need to use the correct type of stones designed for aluminum. Using the wrong stones can damage the cylinder.
Q: What is the difference between a glaze breaker and a cylinder hone?
A: A glaze breaker is used to remove the hard, smooth glaze that forms on cylinder walls over time. A cylinder hone is used to create a specific surface finish for proper ring seating.
Q: How much honing oil should I use?
A: Use plenty of honing oil. The cylinder walls should be thoroughly coated with oil throughout the honing process. This helps to keep the stones clean and lubricates the cylinder walls.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cylinder hone tool for your needs can make all the difference in the success of your engine rebuild. Consider the factors we discussed, such as cylinder material, desired finish, and your experience level. Whether you opt for the ease of the Flex-Hone, the budget-friendliness of the Lisle 30000, or the versatility of the Speedway Motors kit, you’ll be well on your way to achieving optimal engine performance.
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