I've strayed too far from my COC roots. Since my question got what the little boy shot at, I'll trudge on with another one just to annoy my long suffering friends here. :)
**********************************************
Although my truck runs smoother and has more power after I wash & wax it, I do keep it tuned up, but I don't mind it being dirty. In fact, I sort of like it to remain dusty and splattered with mud. Same with my Jet mini. I like to keep it in good mechanical condition, but somehow there's a satisfaction in seeing it splattered with glue, lacquer, wax and coffee. Maybe I need the reassurance that I'm still able to use it. What do you guys think?
do keep it tuned up, but I don't >mind it being dirty. In fact, I sort of like it to remain >dusty and splattered with mud.
All my tools (including my truck) are "users". No "lookers" in the bunch. If they look like they have been used and are in use, so be it.
somehow there's a >satisfaction in seeing it splattered with glue, lacquer, wax
You know, after I use a tool for a while and it works well, I only see it as a favorite tool. The bangs, scratches, stains, nicks and dings are just part of the process. I see a new model of a XXX and think, man, that sure is pretty. But the one I know I have that has the work record with the battle scars to prove it is the one I want. Some of my old banged up tools are like old friends that have made the trip with me.
I have an old Milwaukee circular saw that I bought in '76, and it doesn't run anymore. The cord is melted, it needs bearings and brushes, probably another trigger, and the table is bent. (Other than that it is fine!) But it has many hundred thousand miles on it, miles that made me money, miles that were earned in hot weather, cold weather, wet weather, etc., all without complaint.
That baby is on the wall of my shop to remind me what owning a great, reliable tool is all about. And it isn't appearance.
My Jet mini lathe is heading down that same path. Hopefully it will be with the saw another 20 years as it is at the 10 yr mark now.
Good point... I think the 2 things that I care at all about are the chuck and the bed... hate it when the tool rest or tail stock hang up on old Danish oil or something..
Other than that, it's just steel, so shavings and oil won't effect it's use..
I'm with you. I'm just having too much fun to worry about a few spills of finish, or ding on the powder coat. So my lathe looks USED. I'd rather have it cleaner, but I'm not willing to put the time in to do that.
OTOH, there is no rust, everything that touches the wood is clean and functional, and it gives me good results.
I bought this lathe as a user, not a looker. When I start to produce videos, I'll buy a body double so it looks pristine.
InspirePoint website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here.
All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.