Replies

1. 
   thebardowl | Dec 28, 2020 08:11pm | #1

   I’m no expert, but rumor has it that there are a few that fill the pages/screens here at FWW. One is Mike Pekovich, whose video on block plane set up/tune up is a great starting point at the very least. [https://www.finewoodworking.com/2014/06/02/how-to-tune-up-a-block-plane] It doesn’t specifically address jack planes, but there are some basic principles that apply across the board. So to speak.

1. 
   thebardowl | Dec 28, 2020 08:35pm | #2

   I also ran across a longer video by Peter Sellers on restoring an old, rusty bench plane. It’s about an hour longer, but covers an actual restoration effort of a really quite rusty old plane. It’s also interesting to see what points he emphasizes, and where he says this, that, or the other doesn’t matter as much as one might think. That video is here: https://youtu.be/RYyV6IUpsYk

2. 
   user-6822566 | Dec 28, 2020 10:58pm | #3

   Petula Clark, you're thinking of Clouseau's son, Paul.

1. 
   thebardowl | Dec 29, 2020 12:14am | #4

   lol...Well, I’m not Petula, but you’re right, I’m thinking of Paul, not Peter. And Mary’s got nothing to do with it.

   —Does your dog bite?

   —No.

   ......grrr—bark—growl—snap...

   —I thought you said your dog does not bite.

   —That is not my dog.

3. 
   rob_ss | Dec 29, 2020 03:51am | #5

   Whilst fun to do, it might be worth having a look at this video first: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgIdcIzHG38
   Matt starts with a new cheap plane and brings it up to a decent standard. He is an expert and knows what a good plane should feel like, and he points out every fault.
   Craftsman planes are probably way better off the shelf than the plane Matt shows, but it also depends a bit on which one you have and who made it. Once you have seen his video, you will know what to look for, at least.

4. 
   user-6001446 | Dec 29, 2020 06:56am | #6

   Roland Johnson wrote an article on restoring planes if you are an unlimited member - its comprehensive. I wouldn’t probably use a wire brush except maybe a fine brass bristled one, I have used very fine sandpaper (the black variety) on old planes to clean them up. Rust remover or letting metal parts (remove tote handle/knob) soak in Coke for a few days can work. If you are a total novice you might take pictures and notes as you take the plane completely apart, eg if you go removing every bolt/screw, the frog, etc.

5. 
   Mayor_of_Atlantis | Dec 29, 2020 07:55am | #7

   Two basic restoring approaches to chose from...
   1) practical - make it usable
   2) posterity - make it displayable

   There is lots of online video content that go into greater detail however the basics for each scenario are...
   1) remove the rust, ensure the sole is flat, tote and knob are intact and secure, confirm mating metal surfaces are debris/defect free, replace the original blade/chip-breaker with a modern option. Keep it sharp and ready.
   2) try to preserve the original metal and wood surface patina and "battle scars" by removing rust by gentle means, put it up on a shelf in your shop to provide inspiration.

   My personal choice has been to keep the old stuff mostly for posterity and when I could afford it purchase new, modern equivalents to be my practical users. Most of today's manufacturers use the basic old designs and then fabricate them with modern means and materials. The new stuff from reputable manufacturers is far superior than the originals and makes hand tool usage more enjoyable and satisfying.

   Have fun and enjoy your great grandfather's jack!

6. 
   MikeWI20 | Dec 29, 2020 09:42am | #8

   Wow, Thanks so much for all of the info. I think all of these will be great references to get started. Thanks again.

7. 
   user-6822566 | Dec 29, 2020 10:06am | #9

   I haven't restored many. The crown jewell is a Stanley #8 that was a complete rust bucket, but with a good iron and excellent knob and handle. I cut a piece of PVC pipe as long as the plane, capped the pipe and filled it with a solution of vinegar and salt. After an overnight soak, I used Scotch Brite pads to get rid of the rust throughout, including the corrugated sole. Most of the Jappanning was gone, so I applied black Japanese lacquer with an artist's brush. The wood needed only 0000 steel wool and oil. After simple sharpening, the old plane produced the woosh of beautiful thin shavings. Not bad for $15 at the flea market. It was as good as new, but I couldn't resist equipping it with Hock iron and chip breaker. It doesn't get much use but is always ready and able.