Squeaking knuckles/Squeaking U1 capstans, Roger?

[Tom Cole]

Roger, thanks for the powdered Teflon techniques.

Bill Spurlock has talked about his two-step method which is to coat the
knuckles with powder and follow up with a spraying of TFL 50 or similar
lube. The binding agents in the spray will increase the longevity of the
powder treatment, the theory goes.

I've done this several times but have not had the presence of mind to
determine, in subsequent tunings, how long-lasting this treatment is. It
might work as good as finger sweat, though, especially on a cold day.

Why do you use the suede brush on the wip _cloth_ but switch to 220 grit
to rough up the "suede"? I think I know the answer but it did strike me
as ironic.

Tom

Roger Jolly wrote:
> 
> Greetings Bill,
>                        I've not noticed a problem with U1's, and we sell
> and service a good number of them.
> My procedure when using Teflon is follows. With knuckles, I lightly scuff
> the leather with 220 grit paper to raise the nap, then apply the powder and
> rub it in with my finger, a couple of applications and it is not so temporary.
> With wip cloth, clean and raise the nap with a brass suede brush, again a
> generous application of powder well rubbed in with your finger. I believe
> that the coating of the capstan is Teflon.
> Again this approach is not as temporary as you indicate.
> Maybe the sweat from my finger helps to bond the powder?????? <g>
> Roger

-- 
Thomas A. Cole, RPT
Santa Cruz, CA
mailto:tcole@cruzio.com