The following is a random gathering of handy tricks that made life a little easier a number of times; some of which may have been addressed in the last chapter.

When a unit is especially reluctant to move laterally, and no jackbolts are available, put it in a bind with hydraulic or come-along power. No, not abusive power, just enough to convince the stubborn machine that it s not supposed to bounce back. This results with a lot less hammer damage to the movable unit feet.

When doing heavy hammer work in a close place, don t compromise your safety with a full length hammer handle. Cut it off to the optimum length for the job at hand. I ve found it to be a good practice to take some 2" width duct tape in about 3-ft. lengths and roll it into about 3-ft. tubes with the sticky side out. These tubes can then be tightly spiral-wrapped around the hammer handle which provides a much safer non-slip grip on the hammer. (I have a good friend who still has a face; thanks to this little trick.)

Among the many items just lying around on most construction and maintenance sites is duct seal compound. Try keeping a supply in one of your tool boxes. it s handy for a quick and easily attached mirror for the bottom indicator readings in both Rim & Face and Reverse Dial applications. The bottom of a mag-base mounted indicator or mirror will adhere nicely to a smooth scrap...