Restoring Old Plane #2
Bob Sobieck
>A casual read of an earlier post "Restoring old planes" sparked me.
I use my planes, but must admit need more dedication to practice. I can sharpen the blade fine but must admit they need real tuning. I have downloaded the articles on how to do that but seek a bit more advice.
In particular I have an old Stanley smoothing plan. I looked at Paul Womack's flow chart but can not identify mine. I would like to do this as a first step of total restoation. First off my plane is 9 3/8" long tip to toe so I guess its a smoother. Other than that, all I know is it was purchased by my grandfather who died in 1963. I would guess he bought it as much as 10 or 20 years earlier.
A few certainties. The only stamp in the sole is "MADE IN USA". There is no cast ring for the knob. The cap has "Handyman" as part of the casting. The blade is stamped at the very top (and small) "Stanley", underneath it slightly larger is "Handyman", under that "MADE IN USA", and lastly under that "No. H1203". The frog has 2 independent screws for adjustment.
Previous attempt to repair find the handle cracked and taped up with black electrical tape. Both handle and tape are painted black. I am guessing I can remove the paint from the knob but most likely will have to make a new handle. What type of wood? what type of finish?
Also I must admit, back in high school some 25 years ago, I attempted a refurb myself and had it sand blasted but went no further. I would really like to repaint as original but have no recall of what it should look like. I would like advice on cleaning the metal as the sand blast job is probably oxidized. I see a hint of red on the cap in a crevice.
I am not sure if this is even a worthy tool or a Kmart special. If it can be tuned to a good tool I would really like to use it. Actually I have been using it, but must admit with less than desired results. I guess a really sharp blade is only part of the process.
My goal is:
1. Identify
2. Asses value (refurb or not)
3. Refurb and tune
4. Use with joy
Your help is greatly appreciated.
