Blade for life

Ji-Soo Woo Asked 15 years ago

G'day Alois

I think you are especially qualified to answer this question since you've been using the same blade for a very long time.

I would like to settle on a good blade and then just change rubbers.  Amongst other things this would be cheaper!

Just wondering what was the best way to maintain the blade through numerous rubber changes.

I guess no.1 would be peeling off the rubbers slowly and across the grain to avoid pulling off bits of wood.  I also use a blade protection coating when I first buy a new blade in order to avoid wood chipping off.

One problem I've been having is with my blade where I've used a number of glue sheets in the past.  Bits of old glue sheets still remain on the blade.  It doesn't seem to help to wipe it with alcohol because the sticky bit is on the other side and is not exposed.  How best to remove them?  Would it be safe to sand the face of the blade?  Maybe soak it in alcohol to try and get some penetration into the old glue sheet spots?  Or maybe just ignore it?  What would you recommend?

Thanks!

Ji-Soo

Alois Rosario Answered 15 years ago

Hi Ji-Soo,

Putting a coating on the blade is a good idea if you are changing rubber frequently and also with some of the new glues that really grip.

Light sanding is probably the answer, although I have never done this with my antique.  You need to be careful not to upset the wood too much.

I have never used glue sheets on my blade either but you could try a solvent that is going to get under the plastic type coating.  Perhaps Acetone could be the answer.

Again I turn to the audience with hands upturned.