Re: Getting Started on '31 S/W body

Posted by steve on November 29, 1996 at 23:59:52

In Reply to: Re: Getting Started on '31 S/W body
posted by Bob Carabbio on November 27, 1996 at 22:29:42

I would mark the piece to denote the point at which it doesn't fit. Then determine the deviation along the remaining length of the piece. Then build a jig (ie. dowels along a 2x6 to conform to the desired shape) Soaking the piece in water is one alternative (24 hours submerged) to steaming, then clamp it tight in the jig till dry. Or assemble in jig, and steam it until it can be clamped to the jig contour without snapping it. steaming may not work with such a thick piece.. it is usually done on thinner pieces such as violin sides... but that may be determined by the equipment you have available for steaming. The old shipbuilders used to boil the pieces for the ship ribs then bend and stake or pin them in place to dry. You could for-go the jig if the bend weren't to severe, just soak then bend and bolt it into place to dry.. It all depends on the run of the grain etc... if there isn't a near end bolt you might have to use clamps to ensure that the dried result on the ends is down where you want it.. not being sure what you're up against I'de recommend a jig.. w/ clamps about every 4-6".. clamp blocks to the 2x6 to hold your piece against the dowel pins. ( and one or two to keep it down and straight) I'de let it dry at least several days... (If mine, I'de let it rest at least a week) in a warm/dry environment (..preferably on the kitchen table..right...) because in some climates a garage/shop won't be warm enough.
The surface will be dry but the interior not if the humidity is to high or the temp to low.
Another way is to heat the piece (ie. torch) and bend it into place and bolt it.
Or you could put several saw cuts into the inside of the bend about 1/2 way through the thickness (about 1/4" apart} which will allow it to bend.
If it were mine I would soak it (in hot water), (or better boiling water) (or best boil it and leave to soak) 24 hours then clamp to a jig.
anyway good luck...
steve



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