Bob Smalser
11-06-2004, 2:08 PM
….is that I can’t figure out how to repair them without destroying them.
I always wince a bit when I read folks extolling the virtues of infills over common Stanley designs. Not that I don’t think they are great planes, it’s just that when they get old, repair becomes problematic.
http://pic3.picturetrail.com/VOL12/1104763/2594266/72297543.jpg
Over the past year or so, I’ve been rehabbing and handing down old family tools to my oldest son interested in luthier work, replacing them with inexpensive old auction Stanleys like the #93 above that was easy to put back into order. Cheaper than him buying many new tools, and I can’t think of a better start than using and maintaining your Great Grandfather’s tools with some occasional guidance from your Dad.
The H. Burke infill shoulder plane is one we’ve had for probably 80 years or more, as I’ve had and used it hard it for at least 40. It was my only shoulder plane until I bought that Stanley a year or so ago. Still works OK, in spite of the wear…but not for another generation, that’s for sure.
http://pic3.picturetrail.com/VOL12/1104763/2594266/72297558.jpg
I can replace the iron easily enough….the issue is the mouth wear I’d like to repair before handing it down.
I can’t build it up with nickel-steel welding rod without dismantling it….and there isn’t enough meat left in those dovetails and sides to reassemble, peen and dress it without ruining it.
JB Weld isn’t an option. Any other suggestions?
Thanks.
I always wince a bit when I read folks extolling the virtues of infills over common Stanley designs. Not that I don’t think they are great planes, it’s just that when they get old, repair becomes problematic.
http://pic3.picturetrail.com/VOL12/1104763/2594266/72297543.jpg
Over the past year or so, I’ve been rehabbing and handing down old family tools to my oldest son interested in luthier work, replacing them with inexpensive old auction Stanleys like the #93 above that was easy to put back into order. Cheaper than him buying many new tools, and I can’t think of a better start than using and maintaining your Great Grandfather’s tools with some occasional guidance from your Dad.
The H. Burke infill shoulder plane is one we’ve had for probably 80 years or more, as I’ve had and used it hard it for at least 40. It was my only shoulder plane until I bought that Stanley a year or so ago. Still works OK, in spite of the wear…but not for another generation, that’s for sure.
http://pic3.picturetrail.com/VOL12/1104763/2594266/72297558.jpg
I can replace the iron easily enough….the issue is the mouth wear I’d like to repair before handing it down.
I can’t build it up with nickel-steel welding rod without dismantling it….and there isn’t enough meat left in those dovetails and sides to reassemble, peen and dress it without ruining it.
JB Weld isn’t an option. Any other suggestions?
Thanks.