Welcome to Toolbox Talk!

Take a minute to check out Toolbox Talk and learn about the advantages Steel Dragon Tools offer over similar competitors. With a wide range of tools, accessories and parts, Steel Dragon Tools is here for everyone, from professional plumbers and pipe fitters to ambitious do-it-yourselfers. Toolbox Talk will walk you through the wide variety of machines and tools offered by Steel Dragon Tools as well as provide tips and training whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out.

Posted on: February 14th, 2018 in Al's Tech Talk

Steel Dragon Tool Rebar Cutter Tips

Steel Dragon Tools rebar cutters can be kept in peak operating shape for years to come by following these simple tips. For more information on Steel Dragon Tools rebar cutters, click here. Use the Right Tool Steel Dragon Tools rebar cutters can cut other materials, but it is important to remember to use the proper […]

Posted on: December 20th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

The Versatile 87740 Motor

The 87740 motor is the driving force behind some of the most popular pipe threaders in the industry, including the RIDGID® 300 and 535. The Steel Dragon Tools version of the 87740 motor powers the Steel Dragon Tools 300 and 7090i. The 87740 motor is a versatile work horse and can be used across a […]

Posted on: October 25th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

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 […]

Posted on: October 18th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

Wire Strippers – WRA 10 vs WRA 15

Steel Dragon Tools offers several different models of wire strippers. The two entry level options are the WRA10 and the WRA15. Both models can be operated manually with a hand crank or automatically with a drill. The WRA10 and WRA15 are an ideal entry point for anyone looking to strip wire and increase recycling payouts on scrap […]

Posted on: September 27th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

“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 […]

Posted on: September 20th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

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 […]

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

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 […]

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 […]

Posted on: March 1st, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

Pipe Abbreviations

As with any profession, there can be lots of arcane abbreviations and jargon – pipe threading is no different. Steel Dragon Tools is committed to educating customers and helping them make informed decisions. Buying a new pipe threader from Steel Dragon Tools may have been the easy part, but trying to figure pipe nomenclature can […]

Posted on: February 15th, 2017 in Al's Tech Talk

Pipe Threading Tips

When threading pipe with a Steel Dragon Tools die head, or any die head for that matter, it is important to remember that the scale on the top of the die head is for reference only. The scale is used to get as close as possible to the correct threading size but it is up […]