I bought the "Lexivon" butane torch kit on Amazon a couple of years ago to replace my aging (dying) pencil mini torch. Initially I was not too happy only because the flame (even minimally) is significantly bigger and hotter than I'm comfortable with sticking into an upright action for shank heating. With great care and restraint it works but...
Well, as I was digging through all the accessories that came with it I noticed a tip that turns the flame into a hot blow gun. I tried it out and voila! I now have a safe and controllable heat source for this job. Now I'm very happy with it. Currently the kit is $40 on Amazon. I can highly recommend it. If I do want flame I can get it in seconds. If I want hot air (to add to the hot air I already possess) it's also seconds away.
Edit: Otherwise, when I'm in the shop and doing grand shanks I still like my antiquated alcohol (Aladdin style) lamp with the long spout works great. Use methanol.
Peter Grey Piano Doctor
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Peter Grey
Stratham NH
(603) 686-2395
pianodoctor57@gmail.com
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-23-2024 11:06
From: Eugene Taets
Subject: Heat Gun/Dremel Shaping/Action Support
I've been using a modified hair straightener that was in the Tip & Tools section of the journal. I found a "mini" one at Walmart for under $15. It works best with the modification in the article. The heat goes directly on the spot you want to heat and nowhere else. It works great for heating a part to loosen glue joints as well. A big Thank you goes out to the guy who thought of this idea!
Gene Taets, R.P.T.
Sent from my iPhone
Original Message:
Sent: 9/19/2024 7:36:00 PM
From: Steven Rosenthal
Subject: RE: Heat Gun/Dremel Shaping/Action Support
I think I saw those angle posts in the new products at Schaff.
There are smaller heat guns now than the old pistol type.
Here for example. Several brands/prices on amazon.
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Steven Rosenthal RPT
Honolulu HI
(808) 521-7129
Original Message:
Sent: 09-19-2024 18:52
From: Wim Blees
Subject: Heat Gun/Dremel Shaping/Action Support
Coburn
My favorite heat gun is Weller. A little pricey but worth it. Mine lasted over 25 years.
You can use a Dremel sander to shape hammers, but the mini belt sander Erwin has is much better.
I would suggest you buy the action cradle and supports. but also two posts with wing nuts. I don't know who sells them, but the attach to the action brackets. (Anyone knows what I'm talking about?)
Wim
Original Message:
Sent: 9/19/2024 4:57:00 PM
From: Cobrun Sells
Subject: Heat Gun/Dremel Shaping/Action Support
A few unrelated questions:
What heat gun do others use for heating up hammer shanks? (outside of alcohol lamps)
Anyone use Dremel tool with drum sander guide for shaping hammers? How does it compare to Erwin/Foredom tool?
What upright action support do others use (cradle, posts, extender polls, etc...I know there are many options nowadays)?
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Cobrun Sells
cobrun94@yahoo.com
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