Replies

1. 
   shedhappens | Jul 01, 2005 04:00am | #1

   I'm sorry I can't remember where I read it, but it was about an old timer who built wood bodied planes.  I do recall, though, that he actually used super-glue to repair cracks.  (he also would install set screws on either side of the blade to restrict side to side movement.)

2. 
   joinerswork | Jul 01, 2005 03:14pm | #2

   BJ,

   Here's how I tune up a new (to me) wooden plane. I take the wedge and iron out first. Remove surface dirt with warm soapy water, dry immediately.  Follow up with mineral spirits and fine steel wool to remove grease and grime if necessary.  Lightly wire brush the blade to remove rust, if needed.  Patch any areas missing wood with matching pieces.  I usually don't worry about cracks or checks, unless they are structural. Sharpen the iron, reshape to conform with the profile of the sole if needed. With bench planes that have been used hard, it might be necessary to either patch the sole in front of the iron to take up excessive wear, or to put a thin shim behind the blade, to move it forward. If it looks too dull or dry, then I'll give it a coat of paste wax.  I'm not a fan of linseed oil, especially on antiques, as it has been shown to darken excessively, and is not reversible. 

   It probably makes sense to check on the maker's mark, to make sure you aren't playing around with a valuable artifact, some old planes are quite valuable, and shouldn't be messed with.

   Regards,

   Ray