worn back checks

[Jim_Harvey@yca.ccmail.compuserve.com]

Avery,

I'm unaware of a commercial tool for installing backchecks to a given
height. There are no doubt numerous methods for accomplishing this.

One method is to use a drill press as a 'press', by utilizing the
spindle stop. In case it needs to be said, the press is not turned on
during this procedure. <g>

For those without drill presses, here's a simple method that I've
successfully used. It involves a wooden dowel. The dowel is "hollowed
out" lengthwise with a hand or band saw to surround the backcheck
wire. The dowel is cut to the appropriate length, per sample(s) and
trial and error, then the ends sanded smooth and flat. Changing the
angles of the dowel ends is okay -- depending on how the original
wires were installed (instead of 90 degrees, the ends may follow the
original angle while still "presenting" a flat surface to both the key
and bottom of the backcheck. [This is not easy to explain after a long
day!]

Place the dowel around the b/c wire. Use another dowel, piece of wood
as a drift. The end of this piece of wood should be padded with
buckskin or leather to prevent damaging the backcheck. A soft-faced
mallet also works. Drive 'em home to the stop, but be careful as the
gap starts to close between the spacer and the bottom of the
backcheck. Otherwise, the spacer dowel will become wedged in there!
Appropriate spacers of slit front rail punchings may add some piece of
mind insurance.

Jim Harvey RPT
______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Dennis,

RE: drive
'em in to proper height,

   Is there a commercial tool made to do that, or have you made your own?

Avery Todd, RPT