Replies

1. 
   RANGERP75R | Oct 11, 2003 07:20am | #1

   babaloo

      The situation is not hopeless. How dry was the moisture content and how long did you let it dry before you sized it?

      SYP off the shelf runs about 14% moisture content at the ends and as much as 20% toward the center. I have worked it a lot. I use a moisture meter to determine when it can be worked best. If I'm using it I cut it to a little longer than actual lengths I will use. This allows the very wet center to be able to catch up with the more porous ends sooner. Back to the wood rack till I determine when it reaches between 8% and 12%. Then it gets worked. BTW, I use the method for all stock as I have no dead-lines as an amuteur.

      Still YP and all soft-woods have more resin than hard-woods. It will still require more frequent cleaning of the blade and everything it touches. Simpe green works well. I use Pam on B/S blades to reduce friction. I use the Freud teflon T/S blades to help reduce pitch build-up. Just some thoughts.

   Luck...

   sarge..jt

1. 
   babaloo | Oct 11, 2003 11:00pm | #2

   Sarge,

   Thank you for the information.  I definitely overlooked the moisture factor of the wood.  The wood has been in my garage for a couple of months but definitely not long enough.  A moisture meter will be added to the top of my wish list.

   Do you use Simple Green to clean the rubber tire?  The blade was not too hard to clean.  The tire was harder because I was not sure what type of cleaner was safe for the rubber.  Scraping the resin off took the longest time.

   Great job on your Bench.

   Babaloo

1. 
   RANGERP75R | Oct 12, 2003 09:03am | #3

   babaloo

      The moisture meter is a great investment. You don't have to spend a fortune on a digital. I have one as they play a big role in exactly when I do the work. But, the Timber-Check with pins will also get the job done. I have one of those also. I use it to measure rough stock at the lumber yard and stored on my rack. I think they are only about $59, as the price has dropped recently.

      I clean the rubber components pretty often. I use a course rag with warm water squeezed out of it and then dry it with another rag. If the pitch does build, I do go to the Simple Green as it has mild chemicals in it. You might try a small, medium stiff brush as that seems to help the process.

      I have also used de-natured acholol. I am not sure if that one is good or bad. Perhaps someone can let both of us know on that one. Where are you Forest Girl? he.he.. 

   Regards...

   sarge..jt