Patch-repairing Vulcanite Stems

georged · Oct 4, 2016

OK, I don't use patches often because I don't like their inconsistent durability and I HATE nasty surprises as a categorical thing. The existing damage (volume of missing material, depth, surface area, whether there is "bridging" or not, etc.), together with the variability of a smoker's tooth arrangement and bite strength, makes how long a patch will last a crap shoot.
I understand that many people are OK with throwing those dice, though, for a number of reasons. I have no problem with that at all.
So, Stem Patcher Gamblers, here you go. The Secret Sauce you've been looking for. Other stuff works, but not nearly as well:
https://www.amazon.com/655-8-Pre-Thickened-Part-Epoxy-Adhesive/dp/B00LWKFZJ8/ref=pd_sim_200_3?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00LWKFZJ8&pd_rd_r=8V31KR81WDWRRED866WK&pd_rd_w=q4IHu&pd_rd_wg=N2XnY&psc=1&refRID=8V31KR81WDWRRED866WK
https://www.amazon.com/System-Three-3201A06-Pigment-Coating/dp/B003L0XE0E/ref=sr_1_3?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1475617340&sr=1-3&keywords=epoxy%2Bpigment%2Bblack&th=1

pagan · Oct 4, 2016

I would opt to replace the stem rather than use a chemical compound, just saying

georged · Oct 4, 2016

I would opt to replace the stem rather than use a chemical compound, just saying

You realize that pipe stems are already a chemical compound, right? :lol:

aldecaker · Oct 4, 2016

Well, sure, but so is water!

georged · Oct 4, 2016

That's why I did this. The other thread morphed into a primer on posting images.

ashdigger · Oct 4, 2016

George, I just put that stuff in my cart at Amazonium. Thank you. I was using toughened black super glue BUT I'm always looking for a better mousetrap.

aldecaker · Oct 4, 2016

ADFD. Attention Deficit/Forum Disorder. The struggle is real!

georged · Oct 4, 2016

George, I just put that stuff in my cart at Amazonium. Thank you. I was using toughened black super glue BUT I'm always looking for a better mousetrap.

Excellentez!
Be sure to store the epoxy in your fridge. It will last MUCH longer than when kept at room temp (don't worry, it mixes fine when cold). Also, follow the label directions to the letter for both it and the pigment.

georged · Oct 4, 2016

I've used black super glue for years, and it works great.

But blackened gel G-Flex works even morer greaterer. :mrgreen:

ashdigger · Oct 4, 2016

More gooder, is well, gooderer. :mrgreen:

pagan · Oct 4, 2016

You realize that pipe stems are already a chemical compound, right?

Valid point, but I was opining as a novice/amateur, those repairs I would feel more comfortable leaving to a pro

ashdigger · Oct 4, 2016

Pagan, I'm a total rookie when it comes to resto, but I follow the RebornPipes blog and have summoned the courage to go forward with several repairs that have been highly rewarding. I've saved several pipes and completely enhanced others. Totally worth the dive, IMHO.

ashdigger · Oct 4, 2016

As an example, this is a HORN stem I'm working on. This is clear Thickened Super Glue that I started an hour before this thread. It's a complete crapshoot, BUT I gave $15 for this pipe because of the stem damage. Its a challenge, its an experiment, but its also just a $15 pipe. If I can save it I'm good, if its a disaster its a learning experience.
I don't like stasis, it weirds me out.

ssjones · Oct 4, 2016

I've been using the black super glue (Stew Mac product) for a few years, but it does have its limitations. Even mixed with charcoal or even ash, it still polishes a little shinier than the vulcanite.
George, that material sounds interesting. Can you share any pictures of a repair using this product?

georged · Oct 4, 2016

Can you share any pictures of a repair using this product?

I rarely do patches, and don't keep pics of small/routine jobs in any event. Sorry.

pagan · Oct 4, 2016

I follow the RebornPipes blog and have summoned the courage to go forward with several repairs that have been highly rewarding.

Great, Im not quite there yet, still working on cleaning and sanitizing process to a smokeable condition, recently moved on to buf and waxing the bowl, someday I will graduate to stem work, just not there yet

sablebrush52 · Oct 5, 2016

Great tips, George, thanks!

gloucesterman · Oct 5, 2016

Thanks George, I've been using CA glue with charcoal and the results are decent but I'll give your method a try. Thanks for the tip. Dutch

jpmcwjr · Oct 5, 2016

Thanks for the skinny, George. Would the epoxy be also a good shot for trying to reattach a tenon that snapped cleanly off near the base?

tmb152 · Oct 5, 2016

George, have you tried something like this? This stuff has worked wonders on fixing some of my chewed up stems and you cannot even tell it is there. Only caveat is that you cannot put it in hidden cracks as the UV light needs to get to it to harden.
www.amazon.com/Second-Fix-Liquid-Plastic-Welding/dp/B016MB0JF6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1475681177&sr=8-1&keywords=uv+glue+pen

Patch-repairing Vulcanite Stems

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