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newbi needs info on steam use
http://luthiersforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=10128&t=35570
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Author:  jim daniels [ Wed Feb 29, 2012 7:42 am ]
Post subject:  newbi needs info on steam use

is there a set of plans for building a steam producer or what do I use to take the mandolin apart? I have a hand held torch or will a household steam iron work? thanks jim

Author:  Corky Long [ Wed Feb 29, 2012 8:30 am ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

Do you have an old cappucino maker? They work perfectly - clamp a hose onto the "milk frother"attachment and you've got a steamer, perfect for loosening necks, etc.

Author:  Chris Oliver [ Fri Mar 02, 2012 4:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

+1 to what Corky wrote. I use the StewMac steamer tube and tip with my milk frother.

StewMac hose/needle here

Of course others have used a heat resistant tube from your local auto parts store and a basketball(or other ball) air needle.

Author:  Shaw [ Sat Mar 03, 2012 1:05 am ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

I use a krupp espresso machine I picked up at a thrift store for $8. And I bought some high pressure hose at the car parts store and a football/basketball inflation needle and some small hose clamps.

Author:  Bob Matthews [ Sat Mar 03, 2012 8:08 am ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

I use a wallpaper stripper, a flexible rubber hose with a needle from a football pump for doing neck resets, I'm sure it's overkill as the coffee maker sounds perfect, but it's what I had to hand when i did my first reset.
I haven't had the need to use steam for anything else, but some luthiers will use it for gluing on backs and sides with hide glue. Here's an advocate. http://www.thestrad.com/pdfs/hamtradesecrets.pdf

Author:  ernie [ Sat Mar 03, 2012 8:50 am ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

Some folks use special gaah gaah gloves when working with steam.I used them when bending long arm bows for making chairs.Steam burns are nasty.I speak from experience.

Author:  Shaw [ Sun Mar 04, 2012 12:29 am ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

Yeah Ernie is right about burns. I burned myself slightly when I first started experimenting with the espresso machine.I don't know if my gloves are special but I just wear these smooth leather work gloves that I have....Mike

Author:  Steve_E [ Sun Mar 04, 2012 12:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

I use my wife's Iron with the steam burst option. I know it doesn't get into all the little places, but I sure enjoy watching her freak out that I'm using her iron. beehive

Author:  dustyjeans [ Tue May 08, 2012 12:50 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: newbi needs info on steam use

Old cappicino machine! if you really need steam.

Personally i only use steam on delicate vintage insturments, or for neck removal.

Mix up a glass of hot water, denatured alcohol, & a couple drops of dish soap and inject it into the seam with a syringe. Or wet the kerfing & glue from the inside. Im not talking about soaking it, just enough to soften the glue a bit.

Take your time with a couple of disassembly knives (stew mac) or pallette knives from art supply store. Work slowly and watch where your tool is going.

As always it's best to practice on a couple of junkers 1st.

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