My first resto: Kaput ain't kaput.

[aggravatedfarmer]

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpsvdb9arce.jpg
Follow the link if you'd like. It shows the big crack goes deeper, then splits off horizontally to the right. Ok, I expected something of the sort. However to the right of the draft hole there is missing wood, perhaps chipped away by the previous owner when cake was an issue. I'm gonna do an over night alcohol bath to be able to strip the stain and give it a total restart.

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpsrqowev7m.jpg

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpschkdsdeq.jpg

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpswawo8uqa.jpg
After the alcohol bath I did some sanding. I used 400 fine grit. Opinions? I have a few rough spots to smooth out. Would like some input.

 

[smoothsailing]

There's something up with the photo links
Takes me to a download for the photo.

 

[gloucesterman]

Your project is coming right along. I looks good and I'll bet you learned a lot in the process. So far so good. Keep up the good work.

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

Thanks Gloucesterman! The page shuts down most of the time if I try to post a photo.

 

[gloucesterman]

Here is an example of why these skills are a good thing to have. Each of these pipes sold on Ebay for about $40 and I was able to recondition them. That was a total investment of $120 and this was the result. I dare say I couldn't have bought a set like this new for anything close to that price even if they were still available.

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zps2tqktgok.jpg

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpsskbvrfji.jpg

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpsj3rvw2kz.jpg

http://s1377.photobucket.com/component/Download-File?file=%2Falbums%2Fah65%2Fkelleyalger%2FMobile+Uploads%2Fimage_zpsczecipj7.jpg
The above is my current progress with a bonus picture of what I've aquired. I'm still in the process of making the bowl symmetrical. I'm also trying to sand the oxidation on the mouthpiece, but it seems it takes a long time. Any tips would be appreciated!

 

[gloucesterman]

Faster isn't always better. The shape can be altered pretty quickly with aggressive sanding. I will usually start with 600 grit progressing to 1000, 1500 2000 and 2500 (Available at automotive stores-body work section) then I use white diamond on a wheel. Others do it differently but that seems to work for me. Be careful to try an preserve any brand markings on the stem. Good luck

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

I've been taking my time. I was able to find put to 2000 grit at Home Depot, but haven't had time to really go to any other stores. I was thinking of purchasing online at a retailer. I've been really careful not to sand off the brand markings.

 

[mcitinner1]

Here's what a lot of us use.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HJC156U?keywords=sanding%20pads&qid=1444767211&ref_=sr_1_2&sr=8-2

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

Thanks!

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

Post oxy clean bath and a little sanding. I mean a lot.

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

Polished stem with obsidian oil. Gotta figure in how I wanna finish the briar.

 

[gloucesterman]

Nicely done. Really impressive for a first time effort. Maker's Mark no doubt supplied some inspiration!!!

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

Thank you gloucesterman! A little makers goes a long way!

 

[sthbkr77]

Very nice work so far, it looks great.
I just decided to take the plunge and have 4 auctions worth of junkers heading my way to clean up. This and all the other threads are really inspiring.

 

[aggravatedfarmer]

Thank you sthbkr. I ordered micro mesh sanding pads the other day, so when they come in I'll be able to continue. I have four other pipes I'm working on, one was a top job and the others have a lot of mouthpiece wear. It's a learning process. Is recommend buying the supplies when you need them for starting.

 

[mawnansmiff]

Regarding Obsidian oil, save yourself a fortune and use mineral oil aka 'baby oil' as made by Johnson & Johnson, it is exactly the same product (albeit with a little scent) and does the very same job for a tiny fraction of the cost.
I wonder how much money the makers of Obsidian oil have made by telling folks a cock & bull story about their 'specially formulated' oil being the best/only product to stay off oxidation on stems. Absolute codswallop, try baby oil and see if you can tell the difference!
Regards,
Jay.