Official Luthiers Forum!

I know we talk about tools quite a bit in this forum, so I thought I'd share this...

In my thread about my next electric being started, I posted a pic of me using an old plane as a reference fence. A couple of people on the AGF took note of how that old plane would have done the job better job had it been used for its intended purpose. Well, it was in pretty bad shape, and I had no idea how to get back into working condition. A fellow member at the AGF offered to refurb it for me if I would just send it his way. Well, I took him up on his offer, and he's been sending me some update pics. Just thought I'd post them here since I know that we're all fans of stuff like this.

I sent it out last week, and he's been working some miracles.

So here's what it looked like when he got it. Notice all the paint and rust.


Now he gets to work...









I'll continue pics in the next post...

More pics upcoming...

As you can see, it's been quite a bit of work. I'm anxious to get it back and start using it

Looks like it's just about ready to head home







As you can see, Dave has done this a time or two...

I like seeing old tools brought back to life. I've tuned three old Stanley Bedrocks. Lot's of time flattening on sandpaper stuck to the table saw top. They work as well as my Lie-Nielsens when tuned up. I like to take the finish off of my handles and knobs though. They feel smoother to the touch and won't raise blisters like lacquer can. My right thumb somehow used to always end up with a blister if I did too much planing. Just use them for final fit now. Grunt work is done with jointer, planer and drum sander now.

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No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as the dog does.
Christopher Morley

Really nice job! I have a similar plane that is need of restoration. Do you know where I can get a replacement rear handle? (mine is cracked)

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Brad
Avon, OH

I'm not sure, Brad. This one was actually broken in two. I'd say titebond and clamps

That was impressive work, a lot of dedication to these old tools that are still able to serve as intended. Wow! That was cool.

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Jim Kirby
kirby@udel.edu

Hi, this is amazing how you can bring back these tools to life!
What is the receipe to remove all the rust on the sole and sides of the plane?

I tried one day to dip all the parts of a rusty plane in a bucket with Coke and lemon juice, the rust went away after 6 hours in the mixture and some intensive brushing, but I couldn't get a shiny result like on your plane, so I wonder which method you use for this.

Cheers

q.

That's beautiful work!

Wire wheel + power belt sander...

I personally don't like to remove any more "Patina" then it takes to flatten and square it up... Mostly because I am lazy and it's a whole lot less work that way......

Thanks

Amazing! Ready to be put back to work and looks like new!

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http://www.CostaGuitars.com
PMoMC

Impressive work. I have several I could buff up.

Brad,
check out this guy for replacement totes and knobs:

www.drozsoldetymestanleytotesandknobs.com

I replaced two of my older Stanley planes with this guys product and they are very nice!
Mark

I've had good luck with a reverse electrolysis setup or what is technically referred to as a spooge tank.

If you have a DC power supply or an old fashioned car battery charger, they're very easy to setup.

Kevin Looker

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I'm not a luthier.
I'm just a guy who builds guitars in his basement.
It's better than playing golf.

highland woodworking also is a source.