Honing Tool, which one to use

[bil1024]

I see there are 2 types, the beaded type or one with the 3 blades, before I go out and buy one, which is better? The cylinder bore has some slight scratches, thanks

[Mike N]

I have used both and the ball type seemed easier to get good results with. But before you buy either get a quote from a local machine shop for a 'glaze break' hone. Unless you are doing a few engines and want to own the hone it shouldn't cost much more to have it done professionally.

[Mark Dougherty]

ball hone all the way

[CraigS]

The advantage of the three blade hone is the flat blades. As you begin honing any low (oversized) areas of the bore tend to be obvious. The ball hones just hone everything and you have no idea if there are any parts of the bore that could be out enough that you might want to consider boring the block.