Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Hi Dave, if you haven’t already, search online for your model as you will likely find the original instructions somewhere that details maintenance and care. I have a MF Langdon Acme model 75 and found the instructions on the Bad Axe Saws site. FWIW, the instructions for my saw cautions to not use a lubricant that attracts dust so your instincts are spot on. I only use a very light coat of microcrystalline wax if I’m not going to use it for a while. Hope this helps. 

Thanks. 

Kevin

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Thanks, Kevin.  You’re right.  The instructions don’t mention a lubricant unless your putting it into long term storage.  So, I guess I won’t.  I appreciate the tip on the instructions.  Much obliged.

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Dave, I completed a full restoration of a MF #15 1/2 mitrebox, plus built a replacement 16” mitre saw saw for it. The write up is here:� http://www.inthewoodshop.com/ToolRestorations/MFMitreboxRebuild.html

This is a small mitrebox, just 12” long.

The whole thing was in a very sorry state when received, with the saw posts rusty, and tolerances very, very poor.

One post holder had been brazed at one time, and the post was quite loose.� To tighten this up, I tapped both sides of the guide and made set screws in nylon ..

The other modification I made was to add more nylon inside the blade holder, where the saw back runs, to create tighter tolerances and a smooth action. It now works really well ..

The posts never received any lubrication, but were polished to gleam like mirrors, and this was enough to help them run smoothly. I not needed to touch them in 7 years.

Regards from Perth

Derek

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Yeah man, put a little oil where metal parts rub against each other.  3-in-1 is fine, just use it sparingly.  Put a little bit on a rag and wipe the posts down -- that should leave plenty behind.  If they get too much saw dust on them, brush it off or wipe it off with an oily rag.  If you use oil stones, you'll have a rag or two around the shop with enough oil on them to wipe down saws, planes, and of course the aforementioned parts on your miter box saw.

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Thanks, Derek, for posting and the link. I always love looking at the work you do no matter whether it's furniture or tool making/repair. Your work is inspirational. Yes, this thing is a beast and very similar to your 74C. Dave

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Thanks, Charlie.  I think I’ll let ride for a while without oil and see how it goes.  But if it doesn’t move more smoothly I’ll give your recommendation a try.

Dave

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

Dave -- I'm basically recommending the amount of oil you'd put on a bare metal surface to prevent rust for the most part - a necessity in my shop and where I live.  I have a manual miter box and I do keep the posts wiped down with an oily rag and add a little extra from time-to-time.  It's a no-brainer for me.  There's never enough dust on any part to affect how the tool works, though I suppose there could be if I totally ignored it.  Manual miter boxes are rarely precision instruments, even the really good ones.  They're made to get you very close. On narrow workpieces you can probably get away without adjusting the cut surface.  The saw used, itself, is also a source of 'inaccuracy' as no manual saw leaves a glass-smooth surface (and one isn't always needed) and one that appears dead-straight to the eye often isn't really.  Maybe it's helpful to understand appropriate expectations for the tool.  

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

I am in agreement with Charles. I know I said that my rods were just polished, but I suspect my memory is playing tricks with me, partly because I have not used the mitrebox in a few years. There does need to be some lubricant, and I would recommend Renaissance Wax (as it does not attract dust). Bare metal on bare metal is not a good idea. 

Regards from Perth

Derek

Any paste wax will do.

Re: Langdon 1306C Miter Box Question

I'm wondering if we're going to have a 40+ response thread about the pros and cons of the proverbial oily rag in a woodshop.  ;-) 

Is nothing sacred anymore?

Not everyone has an oily rag.