Maintenance of Silver Spigots

[irishearl]

So, I recently got my first ever silver spigot. I don't anticipate needing to take the stem out as it passes a pipe cleaner better than any pipe I own, (yes, it's a straight Peterson ). But was wondering if there is any special consideration to keep in mind if/when I do. Do you simply twist the silver end of the stem out of the mortise? Thanks.

 

[danimalia]

You haven't taken yours apart yet? Yeah, they just twist in (and out) nice and easy. Some recommend storing them with the stem removed for more complete drying between smokes, and I do this, but I doubt it makes much of a difference to be honest

 

[Casual]

I don’t think there’s much special with maintenance. I have a Peterson straight billiard silver spigot and it’s much more sturdy and tolerant of rough handling than a mortise and tenon arrangement.

I do suggest taking it apart for cleaning, as running a pipe cleaner through will not clean the whole area of the stem and shank that needs cleaning.

 

[mikefu]

I echo Casual...take it apart and clean it. The end of the stem in particular gets lots of gunk built up over a few smokes. Also use a jeweler's cloth to polish the silver as needed to keep it looking fresh. Mine tarnish remarkably quickly. But they are pretty bombproof as far as construction goes.

 

[prndl]

As the former owner of several spigots, I would suggest investing in a few Q-tips to better clean the gap between mortice and tenon on these things.

Evil lurks in the hearts of mortici.

 

[smudgersmissingleg]

I have a couple of Peterson spigots, I love them. Like someone already said, they're pretty bulletproof. The other thing I love about them (as well as being nice to look at) is you can break them down when they're hot, no waiting for them to cool before cleaning.
I always break them down after a bowl as I like to clean the little semi system reservoir with a cue tip.

 

[bullet08]

Get yourself a polish cloth that's not abrasive. I usually polish the spigots and bands after each smoke. Tarnish can build up quick on silver. Abrasive polish can ruin the briar next to silver ornaments.

 

[irishearl]

thanks.