Rail Rider deformation

[rpcarpe]

I bought a Rail Rider tool last year along with the Pro Axle Press.
I enjoy using them, and I'm getting good results.
But the two tools are starting to deform a bit from the hammer blows... am I hitting too hard? Is a rubber mallet preferred or maybe a softer brass hammer? Any reason why these two tools weren't made from stiffer steel?
Thanks,

[jsg]

I've noticed that on my RR tool too. It's been recommended to me that a vise or press is the way to go. A little less impact than a hammer.

[rpcarpe]

The tool still works, but I was worried about wearing it out.
I used it at our District races on Saturday, someone brought in a car w/ 30 degree bent axle. We used the axle press to straighten, then the RR to re-bend correctly. No vise available there, but will use vise at home workshop to straighten/bend axles. Thanks!

[RacerX]

Just use a few light taps, it does not take a lot to straighten or bend the axles and the force between the tool halfs when lightly hit are pretty good.

NOW, kids with hammers are a different thing!!!! Hahahahah!!

I have probaly heard a thousand times at PWD work shops from the repeat kids, " When do we get to hammer the axles?" So fun!!!!!

Racer X

[rpcarpe]

Thanks,
I think the point was finally driven home when I straightened a 30-40 degree bend on someone's axle. I just lined it up in the press and tapped it straight.
Great Tools!!

[RacerX]

Mar 17, 2010 11:25:30 GMT -6 rpcarpe said:

Thanks,
I think the point was finally driven home when I straightened a 30-40 degree bend on someone's axle. I just lined it up in the press and tapped it straight.
Great Tools!!

Many thanks from all of us here at Derby Worx!!!

Racer X

[risingcreek]

Do you only make angle changes on axels to one side? Do you leave one side alone.