Obscure Fact About the 535
Steel Dragon Tools has over a decade of experience refurbishing pipe threading machines and accessories. The RIDGID® 535 is a prime candidate for reconditioning and can be found quite often in the Steel Dragon Tools shop. The 535 debuted on the market in 1957 and has been running in one form or another for over 50 years. Despite the years of experience, the technicians in the Steel Dragon Tools shop are always learning something new. In this case, the technicians pointed out that an 815A die head is not compatible on a 535 Version 1 machines that is equipped with a 340 Reamer.
This is a very specific issue that won’t affect most customers who use a 535 Version 1 machine. While the 815A die head is compatible with the 535, most customers will use the 811A die head. The 811A die head is much more common and is included with all reconditioned RIDGID® 535 packages offered by Steel Dragon Tools. For customers who have a 535 Version 1 machine and want to use an 815A die head, be sure to check which reamer in on the machine.
Over the years, as the 535 machine changed from Version 1 to Version 2 to Version 3, the attachments changed slightly as well. The 811 die head became the 811A die head and allowed for automatic oiling. The 815A die head was later introduced with an automatic opening feature that opens the die head when threading is complete. The 340 reamer was updated slightly to become the 341 reamer.
The 341 reamer is standard on later model 535 machines but will also fit the original 535 design. The difference between the 340 and 341 is nominal. The only thing that has changed over 50 years is the shape of the reamer arm. The 341 reamer has a shallow arm while the 340 reamer has a much more pronounced arm. It is the arm of the 340 reamer that will contact the 815A die head trigger, preventing the reamer from raising or lowering on the machine. This is only an issue when using an 815A die head on a RIDGID® 535 Version 1 machine that is equipped with a 340 reamer.
To learn more about Steel Dragon Tools reconditioned RIDGID® 535 machines, click here.
To learn about the difference between 811 and 815 die heads, click here.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customer service here.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Steel Dragon Tools is always looking for used or broken pipe threading machines and pipe threading accessories. Click here for the purchase list and prices.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
“A” is for Automatic – 811A and 815A
Die heads for most Steel Dragon Tools and RIDGID® power pipe threading machines will either be automatic or non-automatic. Automatic refers the die head’s ability to automatically oil the pipe during the pipe threading process. These die heads will have a through-head oiling system. Automatic die heads will also have an “A” designation in their name like 811A or 815A.
The die head will connect to the pipe threading machine’s oil reservoir, if the machine has one (Steel Dragon Tools and RIDGID® 300 Power Drives do not have an oil reservoir and require a separate, manually operated oiler – like the Steel Dragon Tools 418 Oiler).
A pump in the pipe threading machine will push pipe threading oil to the die head where it will be distributed over the pipe during the pipe threading process. The automatic-style die head is now used across the industry. Non-automatic 811 and 815 die heads are typically not sold as new but can be found used or reconditioned. Steel Dragon Tools buys and reconditions used and broken pipe threading machines and accessories, including RIDGID® 811, 811A, 815, and 815A die heads.
Click here for more information on selling used equipment to Steel Dragon Tools.
Click here to learn more about the importance of pipe threading oil.
Click here to learn more about the difference between 811 and 815 die heads.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.
811 vs 815 Die Head Debate
A die head (or two) is a requirement for most industry-standard pipe threading machines. Using a Steel Dragon Tools 300, 300C, 7090-PRO, 7090i, 7090e, or a RIDGID® 300, 300A, 500A, 535, 535A, 800, 801, 802, or 1822 pipe threading machine will require a die head. Pipe threading professionals can choose between the 811- or the 815-style die head. (Most 811- and 815-style die heads are now being manufactured with automatic oiling operation, designated by the letter A — more on this next week.)
The main difference between the 811 and the 815 comes in operation. The 815 die head has a trigger mechanism that will automatically open the die head and stop the threading process once a certain number of threads have been cut. The 811 die head has a quick open lever that must be opened manually to stop the pipe threading process. Both die heads can be used to thread pipe and bolts, both thread in the right-hand direction, and both have the same threading capacities.
Seems like an easy choice, right? However, the 811 die head allows for a flexibility in threading that the 815 cannot accommodate. The 815 die head will always cut the same number of threads per pipe size before the pipe hits the trigger and stops the threading process. The 811 die head can thread further down the pipe should the need arise.
The 811 die head will also be more reliable in the long run since there are no extra mechanical pieces to break or malfunction. Price-wise, the 815 will be slightly more expensive than the 811 but not by much.
Steel Dragon Tools manufactures an 811A and 815A die head that will fit most industry standard pipe threading machines including Steel Dragon Tools and RIDGID® machines. Steel Dragon Tools 811A and 815A die heads are offered with an automatic oiling feature for use on pipe threading machines that have a pipe threading oil reservoir.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Steel Dragon Tools is always looking for used or broken pipe threading machines and pipe threading accessories. Click here for the purchase list and prices.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
Reconditioned RIDGID® 300
The Steel Dragon Tools Reconditioned RIDGID® 300 is a versatile power drive that can be used for pipe threading or roll grooving applications. Steel Dragon Tools is an industry leader in reconditioning and refurbishing used or broken pipe threading machines and pipe threading accessories. Each machine is disassembled, degreased, cleaned, painted, reassembled. All reconditioned machines from Steel Dragon Tools are backed by a one (1) year warranty against manufacturer defect.
Steel Dragon Tools offers the reconditioned RIDGID® 300 in several different packages. Customers can choose a package that will meet their needs. Packages include pipe threading machines with extra dies, extra die heads, or pipe threading oil.
Packages are available with either reconditioned RIDGID® accessories or Steel Dragon Tools accessories. These accessories include an 811A die head, universal high-speed dies, 360 pipe cutter, 341 pipe reamer, 311 carriage, 1206 stand, and 418 oiler bucket.
The reconditioned RIDGID® 300 is equipped with a foot pedal for hands-free operation and has a pipe threading capacity of 1/4-inch pipe to 2-inch pipe.
The reconditioned RIDGID® 300 can also be used for roll grooving with a compatible roll-grooving attachment. All reconditioned RIDGID® 300 pipe threading machines are compatible with RIDGID® and Steel Dragon Tool accessories and replacement parts.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon, Sears, and Walmart.
Steel Dragon Tools is always looking for used or broken pipe threading machines and pipe threading accessories. Click here for the purchase list and prices.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
Tools repaired and reconditioned by Steel Dragon Tools voids original warranties and certifications from Ridge Tool.
Making Pipe Dies Last
Quality pipe threading dies should last a very long time if care is taken to keep them in good working order. Steel Dragon Tools manufacturers dies that are compatible with several brand-name die heads and pipe threading machines. Steel Dragon Tools dies are made from a composite alloy or high-speed steel and, under proper working conditions, should last a very long time.
To get the most out of a set of Steel Dragon Tools dies, here are some important tips to keep in mind when threading pipe. The following tips should be applied to powered and manual pipe threading machines.
- Always use a high-quality pipe threading oil. High-quality pipe threading oil will reduce the friction between the dies and the pipe. The oil will also absorb heat during the threading process. Excess heat during the threading process can damage the dies and the pipe. Excess heat can cause metal chips to become welded to the dies. Metal chips in the die teeth will affect the consistency and shape of the threads.
- Keep the dies clean. Clean dies make for clean threads. After threading pipe, use a stiff-bristle wire brush to clean any debris that may be stuck in the die teeth.
- Install the dies properly into the die head. Dies that are not properly installed can result in damage to both the die teeth and the pipe. Double check to make sure the dies are properly installed before threading pipe.
Following these steps will help ensure that the Steel Dragon Tools dies enjoy a long operating life and provide you with many perfectly threaded pipes.
To view Steel Dragon Tools dies, click here.
For more information on the Steel Dragon Tools dies call 734-224-7112 or e-mail customerservice@steeldragontools.com.
Learn more about the importance of pipe threading oil.
Learn more about installing dies into die heads.
Learn more about Steel Dragon Tools die heads.
Steel Dragon Tools products are available for purchase from Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Steel Dragon Tools products can also be purchased at major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Sell Your Used Pipe Threading Tools
Steel Dragon Tools will buy used and broken pipe threading machines and accessories. Steel Dragon Tools started refurbishing pipe threading machines in 2009 and is always looking for items to refurbish.
Power Pipe Threaders:
| RIDGID® | 1822 Pipe Threader |
| RIDGID® | 1224 Pipe Threader with Die Head |
| RIDGID® | 1215 Pipe Threader |
| RIDGID® | 700 Handheld Threader |
| RIDGID® | All Model 535 Pipe Threaders |
| RIDGID® | 300C Pipe Threader |
| RIDGID® | 300 Power Drive and Accessories |
Carts for Machines:
| RIDGID® | 150A Cart |
| RIDGID® | 200A Cart |
Power Threader Parts:
| RIDGID® | Cast and Stamped Foot Pedals |
| RIDGID® | 300 Motors and Gearboxes |
| RIDGID® | 300C Motors and Gearboxes |
| RIDGID® | 535 Motors and Gearboxes |
Pipe Threading Accessories:
| RIDGID® | 141 Hog Heads |
| RIDGID® | 161 Hog Heads |
| RIDGID® | 811 and 815 Die Heads |
| RIDGID® | 811A and 815A Die Heads |
| RIDGID® | 12R Die Heads |
| RIDGID® | 12R Ratchet |
| RIDGID® | 774 Square Drive Adpt. |
| RIDGID® | 844 Drive Bars |
| RIDGID® | 840A Universal Driveshafts |
| RIDGID® | 2A Pipe Cutters |
| RIDGID® | 728 Loops for Hog Head |
| RIDGID® | 775 Support Arm |
| RIDGID® | 1452 Tric Trays |
| RIDGID® | 311 Carriages |
| RIDGID® | 341 Reamers |
| RIDGID® | 360 Cutters |
| RIDGID® | 254 Spiral Reamers |
Tristands and Vises:
| RIDGID® | 1205 Tristand |
| RIDGID® | 460 Chain Vise Tristand |
| RIDGID® | 450 Chain Vise Tristand |
| RIDGID® | 40-A Yoke Vise Tristand |
All prices will vary depending on machine condition and current inventory.
Please send photos and contact information to: apietszak@steeldragontools.com or call 734-224-7112.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
Dies from Steel Dragon Tools
Steel Dragon Tools manufactures high speed steel and alloy dies to meet or exceed industry specifications. These dies are compatible with Steel Dragon Tools pipe threading machines and can be used in compatible dies heads with other machine brands.
Dies are an essential part of the pipe threading process. Sharp, well-made dies will ensure consistent, useable threads. Dies with dull or chipped teeth will result in poorly threaded pipe that will not seal properly. Replacing dies as they wear or chip is a necessity but it doesn’t have to break the bank.
Steel Dragon Tools dies are compatible with the specified Steel Dragon Tools pipe threaders and will fit certain other brands. Steel Dragon Tools dies will match the quality of comparable dies but for a fraction of the price. Steel Dragon Tools can offer dies for far less since there is no middle man. Steel Dragon Tools manufacturers the dies and then sells them directly to the customer. Buy an extra set of dies and never worry about chipping a tooth while on the job site.
Steel Dragon Tools manufactures dies for powered and manual pipe threading machines. Many of these dies can be used in compatible die heads from Wheeler Rex® and RIDGID® machines.
For more information on the Steel Dragon Tools dies, click here. For more information on Steel Dragon Tools pipe threading machines, click here.
For more information about Steel Dragon Tools please call contact Customer Service at 734-224-7112 or by e-mail here.
The full line of Steel Dragon Tools are available for purchase from Craig’s Affordable Tools or Toolz Unlimited.
We are not an authorized distributor of RIDGID® and/or Ridge products. RIDGID® Marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used for product identification purposes only.
Steel Dragon Tools Buys Used Equipment
Steel Dragon Tools will buy used and broken pipe threading machines and accessories. Steel Dragon Tools has ten years of experience refurbishing pipe threading machines and is always looking for items to refurbish.
Steel Dragon Tools will buy the following machines:
| MANUFACTURER | MODEL | |
|---|---|---|
| RIDGID® | 300 Power Drive | |
| RIDGID® | 300 Power Drive with Stand | |
| RIDGID® | 300 Power Drive with Stand, Carriage, Die Head, Cutter, Reamer | |
| RIDGID® | 811A and 815A Universal Die Heads | |
| RIDGID® | 811 and 815 Universal Die Heads (older models) | |
| RIDGID® | 141 with dies in good condition | |
| RIDGID® | 161 with dies in good condition | |
| RIDGID® | 1224 Pipe Threader | |
| RIDGID® | 535 Pipe Threader (Old Style) with die head | |
| RIDGID® | 535 Pipe Threader (New Style) with die head | |
| RIDGID® | 535M Pipe Threader | |
| RIDGID® | 1822 Pipe Threader | |
| RIDGID® | 300C Pipe Threader | |
| RIDGID® | 700 Power Drive | |
| RIDGID® | 12R Die Heads | |
| RIDGID® | 42620 Model 774 Square Drive Adapter | |
| RIDGID® | 42405 844 Drive Bar for 141/161 geared pipe threaders | |
| RIDGID® | 19366 758 Loop for 141/161 geared pipe threaders | |
| RIDGID® | 40A TRISTAND® | |
| RIDGID® | 460 TRISTAND® |
All prices will vary depending on machine condition and current inventory.
Reduced prices will be offered for machines with cracked or missing feet, missing front chuck, etc.
Please send photos and contact information to: apietszak@steeldragontools.com or call 734-224-7112.
RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.
Steel Dragon Tools Buys Used Pipe Threading Equipment
Steel Dragon Tools buys used RIDGID® pipe threading equipment ranging from handheld pipe threader die heads, like the 12-R, up to heavy-duty models like the 1224 and 161. Steel Dragon Tools will also buy the various RIDGID® stands, die heads, and associated products.
Used RIDGID® models that Steel Dragon Tools will purchase:
- Machines: 700, 1215, 300, 300C, 1822, 535 (manual or automatic, all three generations), 1224
- Hog Heads: 141, 161
- Stands: 1206 (300 stand), 450, 460, 460-6(chain vises), 40A (yoke vise)
- Die Heads: 12-R, 811, 811a, 815, 815A, 711, 714
Steel Dragon Tools will also buy accessories that work with the units like drive adapters, pipe cutters, and pipe reamers. Steel Dragon Tools will consider items that are missing components or have been disassembled for purchase as parts units.
Selling used equipment is a great way to clean up the shop and make extra money at the same time. For more information about selling used equipment, please contact us by phone at 734-224-7112 or by e-mail here.
Replacing Dies In A Die Head
Replacing or installing new dies in the Steel Dragon Tools 811A Die Head is quick and easy. Lay the die head on a stable surface and move the handles to make the scroll inside the die head retract. The scroll holds the dies in place.
Once the scroll has retracted, slide the die into the die head. The scroll must be fully retracted to remove or install a die into the die slot. Each die is marked with a number and should slide into the corresponding die slot on the die head.
Push the die into the die slot up to the marked line on the top of the die. Once all four dies have been inserted, move the handle to re-engage the scroll, securing the dies in the die head. Some adjustment on each die may be needed if the scroll will not fully engage.
Wiggling the dies back and forth while moving the handle will usually remedy the problem. Once the dies are firmly in place, reinstall the die head onto the pipe threading machine.
Having multiple die heads with
different-sized dies can reduce work stoppage. Utilizing two die heads with different sets of dies will reduce the work load from switching outs dies when threading a variety of pipe sizes and materials. Simply remove the die head from the machine, install the second die head with a different die set, and continue threading pipe.
Steel Dragon Tools dies and die heads are interchangeable with compatible dies and die heads from a variety of manufacturers. Steel Dragon Tools die heads will fit compatible machines and will accept compatible dies. Steel Dragon Tools dies will fit compatible die heads as well.
For more information on Steel Dragon Tools dies and die heads, please contact customer service by e-mail or by phone at 734-224-7112.
The full line of Steel Dragon Tools dies and die heads are available for purchase from Craig’s Affordable Tools or Toolz Unlimited.