Replies

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 22, 2005 06:11pm | #1

   Same solvents/thinners will work.  However, none will speed up the very slow drying time of tung oil.  The only advantage to thinning tung oil is to get a deeper penetration.  But, you need to apply more to get the same amount of oil.

   Howie.........
1. 
   PlaneWood | Jul 22, 2005 09:41pm | #3

   There is Polymerized Tung Oil, you know.  Basically Tung Oil that has been boiled.  It dries much faster.  However, I find that you need to keep it in a container that can contract as you use it to keep air inside the container to a minimum.   Else, it will harden in the can.  Squeezable plastic bottles will work.  Squeeze out the air after use and seal it back up.  Or, don't buy it in large quantities.

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)PlaneWood

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 23, 2005 01:57am | #4

   True, there is polymerized tung oil.  However, in my opinion, any tung oil is better thought of as a colorant or a treatment, not a finish.  Pure, 100% tung oil offers no resistance to water vapor and has no resistance to abrasion.  In other words, it does little but color the wood.Howie.........

1. 
   PlaneWood | Jul 23, 2005 05:27am | #5

   You can always mix in a litte poly varnish or spar varnish for the last couple of coats if you want the protection.

   PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)PlaneWood

1. 
   Gretchen | Jul 23, 2005 02:01pm | #6

   Instead of mixing it in and adding one more possible problem, why not just topcoat with a protective finish coat.Gretchen

2. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 23, 2005 06:40pm | #7

   I would use an oil/varnish right from the git go.  Once the wood has been soaked with pure oil, little if any of the oil/varnish will be absorbed.  It will just make for a rather solf and gummy surface.Howie.........

2. 
   Dustmight | Jul 22, 2005 06:40pm | #2

   I've used mineral spirits with good results.  In addition to penetrating better, thinning makes it easier to apply and makes for a smoother finish IMO. 

3. 
   DougF | Jul 25, 2005 06:08pm | #8

   Of all of the thinners, turpentine partially bonds with the tung oil; other thinners simply flash off.  Turpentine is a moderate to slow thinner.