Save of the day

[Paul M]

Normally I like to leave my antique clamp reels alone but I couldn't resist getting the rust and grime off this recent acquisition. It is relatively large at 2 3/4" diameter. It features a working constant check (missing a gear tooth) and a brass grasp. I hope to find a replacement butterfly screw one day for the clamp. The biggest challenge getting into the check housing was the rusty handle arm bolt. WD-40 was insufficient. I finally got it to release using the ice cube trick. I was never able to get the cage apart due to 3 wire-pin locks that I didn't want to risk damaging. It turned out better than I expected.

AFTER:


DURING:


BEFORE:

[Steve]

Nice save, Paul!
For delicate work, you can always use one of these.

[Paul M]

Thanks, Steve. This is the tool I prefer for the most delicate work

[Don Champion]

That looks much better. It also looks like a rather old reel. Nice going.

[john elder]

Clapclapclapclap!!!