Posted on: August 31st, 2017 in Product Spotlight

Reconditioned RIDGID® 300

RD-RF-300-70830_01The 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.
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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 AmazonSears, 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.

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Posted on: August 22nd, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

Making Pipe Dies Last

SDT-477-Alloy_01Quality 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.

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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.

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Posted on: August 9th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

Tips and Tricks for the 535

One of the common complaints from users of the Steel Dragon Tools Reconditioned RIDGID® 535 is that the chuck or the pipe wobbles, resulting in unusable threads.

 

If the machine is not threading properly, check the dies first. A good set of dies should last a very long time. Unless the die teeth are chipped or otherwise damaged, the dies should work without issue. Next, check the installation. Dies will fit into the die head only one way but should be installed securely and in the proper order. If the dies are installed properly, check the rear centering chuck. The rear centering chuck simply keeps the pipe centered in the machine. Do not over tighten the rear chuck. Only hand tighten the rear chuck, do not use tools.

 

The front chuck does most of the work when threading pipe. The front chuck should only be hand tightened. Do not use tools to tighten the front chucks.

 

To tighten front and rear chuck, spin chuck forcefully in a counter clockwise motion. The chuck will tighten around the pipe. Do this several times to ensure a snug fit. The sound the that the chuck makes will change as it tightens. Once the sound changes, the chuck is tight. A tightened chuck will give off a short, dull sound as the chuck has already tightened around the pipe.

 

Other Tips to Remember:

The guide marks on the die head are not exact. Always run a simple threading test before threading the actual work piece. Use a properly-sized fitting to test the threads. A properly threaded pipe will allow the fitting to turn one and a half to two turns before meeting any resistance. If the fitting continues to turn easily or does not turn at all, the die head settings will need to be adjusted.

 

Threads should only be cut to the width of the die head. Cutting threads too far down the pipe may result in unusable threads. Some dies are designed to cut tapered threads. Cutting beyond the width of the die head will result in straight threads instead of the desired tapered threads.

 

For more information about Steel Dragon Tools please call contact Customer Service at 734-224-7112 or by e-mail here.

 

RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.

 

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Posted on: August 2nd, 2017 in Product Spotlight

Steel Dragon Tools 819 Nipple Chuck

SDT-819_01The Steel Dragon Tools 819 is a nipple chuck adapter used to create pipe nipples on 1/2-inch to 2-inch pipe. The Steel Dragon Tools 819 can be used with both RIDGID® and Steel Dragon Tools pipe threading machines, including model numbers 300, both power drive and compact, as well as 535, 1882, and 1224.

 

The Steel Dragon Tools 819 package includes a nipple chuck wrench, adapter hanger for storage, standard insert and five adapters: 1/2 in., 3/4 in., 1 in., 1-1/4 in., and 1-1/2 in. The base itself serves as the 2-inch adapter.

 

To create a pipe nipple, install pipe into the threading machine and thread pipe as normal. Cut the pipe to the desired length. Install the Steel Dragon Tools 819 nipple adapter into the pipe threading machine and screw the threaded end of pipe into the adapter. Do not over-tighten the pipe into the nipple adapter. Hand tight will be sufficient. Once the pipe is secure in the adapter, thread it as normal.

 

It is important to make sure the initial thread is the correct dimensions. If the threads are over-sized or under-sized, the pipe may become lodged in the adapter. Removing a lodged pipe will require a pipe wrench and considerable force. Test the threads with a thread gauge or corresponding fitting to ensure the threads are dimensionally correct. A fitting should turn 1-1/2 to 2 turns on a properly threaded pipe.
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Insert the plug end of the nipple chuck wrench into the holes in the adapter to release the tension spring inside the adapter. Unscrew the pipe from the adapter while relieving the tension. A pipe wrench may be required to unscrew the pipe from the adapter. The pipe can become lodged in the adapter if the threads are not dimensionally correct. The pipe will tighten by itself in the adapter during the threading process.

 

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.

 

RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.

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Posted on: July 13th, 2017 in Customer Service

Reconditioning Pipe Threaders – The Process Part 3

Step13

Steel Dragon Tools has over a decade worth of experience refurbishing used pipe threading machines. Steel Dragon Tools will buy used RIDGID® pipe threading machines in almost any condition. These machines are processed, repaired, and sent back to the market good as new. Refurbished pipe threading machines from Steel Dragon Tools are guaranteed to work like new and cost far less than a brand-new pipe threading machine. This post is the second part of a three-part series. Click here for part one. Click here for part two.

 

The final part of the process is sending the finished machines out to the customer. After the used or broken pipe threading machines have been repaired and tested they are boxed and ready to ship. Refurbished pipe threading machines from Steel Dragon Tools are guaranteed to operate like new and are available for a fraction of the cost of a new machine. Reconditioned RIDGID® pipe threading machines by Steel Dragon Tools are available for purchase online from our distribution partners Craig’s Affordable Tool and Toolz Unlimited. Customers can also purchase these machines online from Amazon, eBay, and Sears.

 

Reconditioned RIDGID® pipe threading machines by Steel Dragon Tools are sold with a variety of accessories including reconditioned RIDGID® die heads and dies or Steel Dragon Tools die heads and dies. Steel Dragon Tools manufactures a full line of die heads and dies that are compatible with many of the industry-standard machines.

 

For more information about Steel Dragon Tools please call contact Customer Service at 734-224-7112 or by e-mail here.

 

RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.

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Posted on: June 22nd, 2017 in Customer Service

Reconditioning Pipe Threaders – The Process Part 2

Step6
Steel Dragon Tools has over a decade worth of experience refurbishing used pipe threading machines. Steel Dragon Tools will buy used RIDGID® pipe threading machines in almost any condition. These machines are processed, repaired, and sent back to the market good as new. Refurbished pipe threading machines from Steel Dragon Tools are guaranteed to work like new and cost far less than a brand-new pipe threading machine.

 

This post is the second part of a three-part series. Click here for part one.
Step10

 

The second part of the process starts with a thorough cleaning. All parts of the machine are degreased and then inspected to check for integrity. The parts are then sent to be sandblasted. Sand blasting removes old paint and rust in preparation for paint. After sand blasting, the pieces are sent to the paint room. All parts are repainted to match the original machine using a durable, high-quality, rust-resistant enamel.
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Once the paint has dried, the machine is ready to be reassembled. New parts, including motor field, brushes, and armatures, as well as gears, bearings, and power cord are installed in the machine.

 

After the machine has been reassembled it is tested by a technician to ensure the machine will operate in like-new condition. Once the testing has been completed, the machine is boxed and ready to ship.

 

Steel Dragon Tools offers different packages with all the refurbished pipe threading machines. These packages include extra dies or die heads, high-quality pipe threading oil, pipe stands, and other accessories. Steel Dragon Tools also offers packages with new die heads and dies manufactured by Steel Dragon Tools.

 

For more information about Steel Dragon Tools please call contact Customer Service at 734-224-7112 or by e-mail here.

 

RIDGID® marks are trademarks of RIDGID, Inc and are used only for product identification purposes.

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Posted on: June 14th, 2017 in Customer Service

Reconditioning Pipe Threaders – The Process Part 1

original
The process starts when Steel Dragon Tools buys a used pipe threading machine. Steel Dragon Tools will buy a variety of models as well as the accessories. For more information on selling a used pipe threading machine, please click here.

 

Steel Dragon Tools actively seeks out used or broken machines for repair. Shop manager David Krell searches Craigslist, eBay, and other internet forums and classifieds to find these used machines. Steel Dragon Tools can arrange for shipping. After working out a deal with the seller, these machines are brought into the shop to be refurbished.

The used machines are brought into the shop and disassembled. All pieces are examined to determine condition. Parts in poor condition will be replaced to ensure safety and effective operation. All wear items, including motor field, brushes, and armatures, as well as gears, bearings, and power cord will be inspected and replaced as needed.

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Steel Dragon Tools also offers repair service for many of the most popular pipe threading machines on the market. Along with repair shop, Steel Dragon Tools also manufactures a wide variety of industrial tools including a full line of pipe threading machines die heads, dies, and replacement parts that will fit many of the industry-standard machines. Steel Dragon Tools also manufactures cable wire hoists, core drill rigs, drain cleaning machines, lifting magnets, annular cutters, and pipe inspection cameras. To view a full list of Steel Dragon Tools products, please click here.

 

For more information about Steel Dragon Tools please call contact Customer Service at 734-224-7112 or by e-mail here.

 

 

Steel Dragon Tools is 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.

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Posted on: May 26th, 2017 in News and Events

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.

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Posted on: May 19th, 2017 in Customer Service

The Art of Active Listening

 

By Samantha Benson, Customer Service Manager at Steel Dragon Tools

 

Active Listening

The customer service representative at Steel Dragon Tools have all been trained to be active listeners. Active listening is a way of communicating with another person to improve mutual understanding. Sometimes, when two people are talking to each other, one or both may not be actively listening, they may be distracted or simply waiting for the other person to finish so they can speak.

 

Below are some active listening techniques that we use to help our customer service representative become better communicators. These techniques work well in the realm of customer service but can be applied in any situation to help us understand each other better and improve our daily relationships.

 

Active Listening in Every Situation

 

Do:

  • Paraphrase the speaker’s words.
  • Be mentally prepared to listen.
  • Evaluate the speech, not the speaker.
  • Be unbiased toward the speaker by depersonalizing and stepping away from emotional response.
  • Fight distractions by tuning out external sounds.
  • Ask questions to clarify and corroborate thoughts.

 

Don’t:

  • Show boredom.
  • Get distracted by outside stimuli.
  • Prepare your response or mentally argue while the speaker is talking.
  • Interrupt the speaker.
  • Reflex on the rightness or wrongness of what is being said.

 

This is the second part of the article Communicating for Success. To view the first part of the article, click here.

Steel Dragon Tools customer service can be contacted by e-mail or by phone at 734-224-7112.

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Posted on: May 11th, 2017 in Product Spotlight

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.

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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.

 

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