Super Simple Center Punch

I have an automatic center punch in my workshop but it never quite delivers the right hit and sometimes it even misses to hit at all.

I wanted to make another so I can have something that can deliver more impact when needed so I decided to use an old car engine valve that I've got from a car service for free.

The valve is made out of a strong alloy so it will be perfect for the job.

To make the cone, I've seen many people cutting off the valve head. However, I didn't want to do that since the head will be a perfect and wide surface for hitting.

Tools and materials used in the video:

• Automatic Center Punch - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_ApGIxt
• Cordless drill - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_AfEvlZ
• Disk and Belt Sander - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_9xEDSj
• Torch lighter - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_9uQ5gB

Alternative links on Banggood:

• Automatic Center Punch - https://www.banggood.com/custlink/Dmvd88jAuw
• Cordless drill - https://www.banggood.com/custlink/mKKR9iOzmG
• Angle Grinder Sander - https://www.banggood.com/custlink/vmGESSLMvH
• Butane torch - https://www.banggood.com/custlink/KGmdSioqDa

Since I didn't want to cut off the head of the valve, I had to find a way how to secure it in my drill so I can grind off the tip.

My first idea was to glue a piece of hot glue stick to the head, so the glue stick can be then mounted in the drill chuck.

I've used a propane torch to heat up the valve but since the valve was cold, the glue did not stick at all.

Then, I pre-heat the valve as well and this time the glue was holding, at least for a while thou.

As soon as I started grinding the tip of the valve, the glue failed, and I needed a plan B.

I grabbed a piece of steel wire and wrapped it around the valve, making sure to leave at least three tabs around the head so I can tighten it with pliers.

The resulting pin was then secured to the drill chuck and this worked perfectly.

To grind the cone, I've used my disk sander while simultaneously spinning the valve in my drill.

This made sure that the grinding is even on all sides and that the cone is not tilted to one side.

Since the grinding induces heat to the valve, I used some water to periodically cool it off so it stays strong.

A center punch is a must in any workshop and it only takes an hour to make one.

Check any of your local engine repair shops and I'm sure that they will be happy to give you a used valve for free.

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Cheers and thanks for reading.