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Gallery, Projects and General => Gallery => Topic started by: flyingtractors1 on April 27, 2013, 06:40:34 PM

Title: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 27, 2013, 06:40:34 PM: I've decided to start a new thread to announce my collection of miniature tools and the tool board / box and work bench I built to display them. I'm also working on a video that will hopefully show more detail. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ToolBoxampBench006_zpsc4f70f41.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/ToolBoxampBench006_zpsc4f70f41.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on April 27, 2013, 08:00:06 PM: Ralph

There is not much to say about that except

(http://i1248.photobucket.com/albums/hh490/DSquire/Main-2/Emoticons/wow_001.gif) (http://s1248.photobucket.com/user/DSquire/media/Main-2/Emoticons/wow_001.gif.html)

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 27, 2013, 08:07:59 PM: Thanks Don. Thought I'd add a pic of these huge thumbs just for scale. This hammer and the plane in front were cast in solid gold. Other pieces include silver, brass and gold with exotic wood handles on some pieces. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ThumbandHammer001_zpsb7b04a2d.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/ThumbandHammer001_zpsb7b04a2d.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on April 27, 2013, 11:50:24 PM: Looks Great!!! :clap: :clap:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Mayhem on April 28, 2013, 12:41:15 AM: I'm glad you put the thumb in for scale, as I wouldn't have guessed they were that small from the original pic. That sure is a nice collection and example of craftsmanship at its finest.

Thanks for sharing
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 28, 2013, 08:38:43 AM: Thanks vtsteam and Maymem. I think that I've got the video part figured out. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Rob.Wilson on April 28, 2013, 09:16:44 AM: :bugeye: Bloody hell Ralph ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Thats one truly impressive set of tools :bow: :bow: :bow:

I also like the way in which you have decided to make a workbench and tool board as it makes for a cracking display :med:

Nice touch with the metal work vice , any chance of a close up photo of the tools in the left hand wing :)

Rob
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Bangkok Mick on April 28, 2013, 10:39:06 AM: That’s an amazing collection.

Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 28, 2013, 12:09:11 PM: Thanks Mic and Rob. A couple of close ups. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/BenchandToolsleftside003_zps7ef6d42f.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/BenchandToolsleftside003_zps7ef6d42f.jpg.html)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/BenchToolsleftside2001_zpsfe5f7f33.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/BenchToolsleftside2001_zpsfe5f7f33.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Rob.Wilson on April 28, 2013, 12:13:15 PM: Thanks for posting the photos Ralph :thumbup:

gobsmacked ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, just excellent :bow: :bow:

Rob
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 28, 2013, 01:37:35 PM: Got the video figured out.? Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Kjelle on April 28, 2013, 02:23:07 PM: :bow:

Fantastic...

Like someone wrote in another thread, Rivett608 over om Practical Machinist site does something like you... Can someone that's a member over there send him a link to this thread?

Kjelle
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: doubleboost on April 28, 2013, 03:53:53 PM: Hi
Ralph
Amazing work
The video is great (even the wife was impressed)
That is a collection that will be handed down to future generations
John
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: krv3000 on April 28, 2013, 05:50:07 PM: good post :thumbup:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 04, 2013, 07:12:38 PM: Thought I'd add a couple new pics. Ralph

Marking Gauge, T Bevel and Square

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SquaresampMarkingGauge2010_zps393e23d7.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/SquaresampMarkingGauge2010_zps393e23d7.jpg.html)

Stair Maker Saws

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/stairmakersaws007_zps8dbac2f1.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/stairmakersaws007_zps8dbac2f1.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 11, 2013, 01:44:20 PM: I finally got a "New" set of chisels for my collection - case hardened steel with walnut handles. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1062_zpse83ea8b6.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/DSCF1062_zpse83ea8b6.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on May 11, 2013, 06:02:02 PM: I was going to say you'll need some lignum vitae for a mallet, but then saw the metal ferules instead of leather buttons, so I figure these can take a hammer, like Japanese chisels.

They look fine! -- Nice job on the sockets!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: raynerd on May 11, 2013, 06:37:12 PM: Wow, really lovely. Can you tell us more about how you cast the hammer in gold?
Chris
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 11, 2013, 07:53:05 PM: Thanks vtsteam and Chris. I had meant to post a pic for scale reference. I actually have created some scale wooden mallets and hammers also. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1066_zps62014205.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/DSCF1066_zps62014205.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 11, 2013, 08:26:12 PM: Well Chris, thanks for your interest. It's a long story - the lost wax process. But it's something like this -
The lost wax casting method is one in which a form of the part (a hammer head) is carved of wax and placed in a container with investment (a plaster of Paris mix) surrounding the wax model in the container. Air bubbles are vacuumed out. Then the wax is then melted out leaving a cavity in the shape of the wax model in the plaster mold which is then cured in high heat, and molten metal is poared into the cavity yielding a solid metal version of the original wax model which is then finely filed, sanded and polished. A Rubber mold can be made, and by injecting wax into that cavity, wax patterns can result allowing the process to be repeated for any number of copies. Sorry this got so wordy. I'll try to do a pictoral build documentation. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on May 11, 2013, 08:40:55 PM: Didn't know about casting additional wax patterns in rubber -- thanks for that bit of info!

Hardly wordy... by my standards anyway. :palm:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on May 12, 2013, 03:40:21 AM: Hi Ralph,
What a lovely collection you have built, complete with bench and toolbox. You must be very proud of what you have achieved.
Well Done David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 12, 2013, 10:16:25 AM: Thanks David. I am pleased with the collection and proud that my grandson has been so instrumental in its development. He will long remember the days that he helped his grandpa with it. That is the ultimate in this hobby. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 15, 2013, 04:09:14 PM: I've found a rendering from years ago describing how to cast a hammer. This is not the lost wax process that I mentioned above. It is more like a sand casting process, but it uses plaster instead of sand. This is the process that I employed when I first started building miniature tools. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/castinginfo_zps58fb40d3.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/castinginfo_zps58fb40d3.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on May 15, 2013, 08:43:06 PM: Cool drawings! :clap:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ddkhalaji on May 15, 2013, 10:30:12 PM: These is very impressive work! :thumbup:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 18, 2013, 04:11:31 PM: Thanks. Just finished another special tool. This one has been in the making for some time and finally came together. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Router2008_zps1853444f.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/Router2008_zps1853444f.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Rob.Wilson on May 19, 2013, 03:35:40 AM: Cracking router Ralph :thumbup:

Rob
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 23, 2013, 12:06:40 AM: Thanks again Rob. Thought some might appreciate this product of home casting.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturetwinhammers005_zps3166c0a2.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/Miniaturetwinhammers005_zps3166c0a2.jpg.html)

These were cast upside down from this pic. The base here was actually the sprue into which the molten metal was poured. The hammers on my tool board were also made employing the lost wax process. When this mold was broken off I discovered that I didn't have the heart to separate the twins and finished them to high luster and made "twin" handles for them. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on May 23, 2013, 01:13:03 PM: I've seen those actually, full scale, it's a double-fisted nail puller.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Rob.Wilson on May 23, 2013, 02:42:31 PM: Hi Ralph

I agree it would have been a shame to part them :med:

Rob
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 24, 2013, 06:02:34 PM: Found another old tool in the archives. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MiniatureMonkeywrench005_zpsf8081738.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/MiniatureMonkeywrench005_zpsf8081738.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: doubleboost on May 24, 2013, 06:16:34 PM: It just gets better :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :bow: :bow: :bow:
John
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 28, 2013, 08:18:56 PM: Thanks gents. I have floundered for a while and have stumbled onto a "new" tool that I must have in my collection. I'll start a new thread so that I can document the build process as it developes. I don't have a full scale model but will be working from pictures I've found. Below is a picture of the new goal. I'll post it under "Miniature Scraper Plane" Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Miniaturescraper015_zps523ade63.jpg) (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/flyingtractors1/media/Miniaturescraper015_zps523ade63.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on May 28, 2013, 08:30:14 PM: It's getting hard to tell whether a picture is of a model or a full scale tool. I thought that was one of your models! Looking forward to your new build thread.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on June 13, 2013, 02:52:11 PM: Thanks again vsteam. Thought some might appreciate my latest project. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Pipecutter2002_zps8f69a513.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on June 13, 2013, 06:15:22 PM: Well I appreciate it Ralph :thumbup: :clap: , very nice , I like the rounded shape of the turn screw........Keep up the good work :beer: Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 23, 2013, 11:32:58 AM: Here's one in progress. It's a sterling silver model weighing in at 1.0 oz at this stage. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverMiniPlane005_zps1a6928b1.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 23, 2013, 11:48:29 AM: It was a good weekend and got to finish (if anything ever really is) the silver plane. The wood parts are Rosewood and were as challenging to build as the metal parts. But it's in hand now at 1.28 oz. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverMiniPlane3001_zpsdb9d98a8.jpg)

and on the bench.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverMiniPlane2003_zpsd321a8de.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on July 24, 2013, 09:36:32 PM: Another beauty! That knurl looks great. :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: clevinski on July 24, 2013, 10:39:01 PM: Quote from: flyingtractors1 on April 27, 2013, 06:40:34 PM
I've decided to start a new thread to announce my collection of miniature tools and the tool board / box and work bench I built to display them. I'm also working on a video that will hopefully show more detail. Ralph

Ralph,

Well, that is simply amazing. At first I was thinking, "Nice set of tools, but why'd he post it here?" It wasn't until I saw your thumbs in the photo that I realized they were miniature tools. Amazing work!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: John Lindo on July 26, 2013, 02:36:39 PM: Brilliant workmanship.

Thanks for sharing

John
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: steamup on July 27, 2013, 02:13:00 AM: Thanks for sharing I hope that you display your workshop notes with the tools I think they really add to the presentation.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Bangkok Mick on July 27, 2013, 02:27:10 AM: This collection will be displayed in a museum long after we are all gone and forgotten about.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on July 27, 2013, 02:27:35 AM: Ralph.
I've been admiring your workmanship, ever since you started this post. :thumbup:

The tools are made with such close attention to detail, and "impossible" to tell their scale.

Well done! Doesn't really sound sufficient....... :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 27, 2013, 11:04:09 AM: Gentlemen and Ladies, Thank you very much for the recognition and support that you give me. I am encouraged to attempt new projects and to post other topics. Here are sone that I may have overlooked. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniJackplanepair007_zps3d1ccf1a.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SmoothingPlaneEarRings3003_zps98ca200d.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniBullnoseplane2003_zpse1d69528.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MicroMiniBullnoseplane006_zpsee9cfa37.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 27, 2013, 01:35:27 PM: Started a new build this week; it'll be a good weekend. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4002_zpsd6aea266.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4004_zpsc6932ff3.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4005_zps9b19997e.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/SilverscraperPlane4007_zps6c1cd796.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: PekkaNF on July 27, 2013, 06:58:36 PM: WuuWaa! I saw that silver plane and startted thinkking "That is really a gem" and then I saw earings :clap:

Great work. I also liked the knurl, did you use cigaret lighter wheel?

Pekka
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 27, 2013, 08:24:20 PM: Thanks Pekka. For the knurles I used a tiny jeweler's knurling wheel. Very delicate and hard to use. Sometimes I get it just right. I'm working on another silver plane now - a #12 scraper (I think) shown above. a little progress today. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 28, 2013, 09:11:54 AM: A little more progress already. I just had to get that tiny drilling and tapping done so I could breathe easy. Ever tapped an 0-80 thread? It is difficult to get right - not break in the hole, ruien the whole piece, and it is scarey. But it's done just right now. On to other operations. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild3002_zps57412856.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild2005_zps623c728a.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild2010_zpsfaf5e03b.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild001_zps8dc56a2c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: NickG on July 28, 2013, 10:11:55 AM: These are really neat - very nice work!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 28, 2013, 05:47:31 PM: A little progress each time I get some work time. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild2009_zpsa9917154.jpg)

This was a complicated piece with three seperate silver soldering procedures.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild005_zpseab5418d.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on July 28, 2013, 06:10:13 PM: Hi Ralph total quality as usual :drool: :drool: , I really like the finished sterling silver plane on the previous page , very classy indeed , Keep up the good work :thumbup:

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 29, 2013, 11:48:09 AM: Thanks again, Mick. Well, the parts have come together well enough.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild003_zpsdbfdbe04.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild002_zpsc86543b9.jpg)

Now - endless fine fileing, ever smaller grit sanding, and buffing & polishing. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Rob.Wilson on July 29, 2013, 11:56:52 AM: :bugeye: amazing Ralph :bow: :bow: :bow: :bow:

Rob
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 30, 2013, 11:04:04 AM: Thanks again Rob. A new build started. Haven't finished the last one yet, but needed a break from that intensity. :hammer: Kinda like smashing your thumb to aleviate a sore toe? :doh: Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ChariotPlanebuild002_zps0c0c4aa9.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ChariotPlanebuild003_zps243b13cd.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 02, 2013, 11:36:40 AM: Got another one in the making. Some day I'll finish the other ones I've got started. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane3002_zpsfaca7d3c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 03, 2013, 09:37:51 AM: Backing up just a bit demonstrates options considered and might explain why a build often requires so much time and thought just considering the possibilities. I really would like to see a model employing dark, rich Ebony and silver or gold, But I'll work with what I've got and see what turns out rarely building more than one copy of anything, let alone one so complex and challenging. Back to work. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlanebody005_zpsbb642f58.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 03, 2013, 06:38:38 PM: A little more progress. Preparing the plane body to receive the blade (used a miniature saw from the tool collection to do the job). Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1617_zps290670db.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1611_zps5c596388.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1609_zps66b9f1a5.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 04, 2013, 02:17:53 AM: We all make tools, to make other parts Ralph. :thumbup:

But making miniature tools, to make more miniature tools, is pushing the envelope a little! :bugeye:

You produce some beautiful miniatures/ jewellery. (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-love029.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 04, 2013, 08:32:15 AM: Thanks David. Sometimes we use the best tool for the job. Just finished the Chariot plane. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ChariotPlanebuildfin001_zps874f7172.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ChariotPlanebuildfin003_zpsbeb46986.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 04, 2013, 05:02:59 PM: Lever cap, knurled bolt (1-72) and blade . . . seems like such insignificant small parts. Well, small they are - have to be, and that makes it such a big accomplishment toward the whole project. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlanecap_zps327a9d04.jpg)

Parts that I didn't - couldn't use. Seems that for the plow plane I've had to make every part at least twice, :bang: but it's progressing.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlaneX_zps1932759c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 07, 2013, 08:32:22 AM: New Project. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplane2_zpsfff3a64d.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on August 07, 2013, 12:25:20 PM: Ralph

You continue to amaze me with your excellent work. Thanks for continuing to share it with us. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 08, 2013, 10:55:29 AM: Thanks, Don.

The Rabbet plane turned out nicely. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplanefin005_zps669d684d.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Rabbitplanefin009_zps999cbcf4.jpg)

Now I'll try to finish - make progress on other projects under way. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: NickG on August 09, 2013, 09:45:51 AM: That's a beauty!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on August 09, 2013, 01:28:43 PM: Sure is! :bow: :bow: :bow: :beer:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on August 09, 2013, 06:34:56 PM: Top class as usual Ralph :bow: :bow: , always a pleasure to see your creations, you have the edges rounded and buffed just right.....Keep up the good work , Thanks for posting :thumbup: .

Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 09, 2013, 08:22:59 PM: Thanks Again, Gents. Have a couple more "irons in the fire" and in the archives that I'll post soon.

Some progress on the plow plane. The fence came together well. Now need to "fit" it properly. I sure hope this works. The tolerances have been, what? . . . Maddening. :bang:

Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DSCF1604_zps9254c2ca.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 10, 2013, 01:59:24 AM: Mick's comment re the edge finishing is, spot on! :thumbup:

However you manage to keep to scale, even with the "deburring" is beyond me...... :scratch:

Well done (again) Ralph. :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 11, 2013, 02:54:42 PM: Thanks, David.

I don't know - never think about it nor measure anything. I just eyeball it, and when it feels right I stop. I do sketch on 1/4" graph paper and draw a sense of size and shape from that. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 12, 2013, 12:12:34 PM: After a little tweeking, the two major parts fit together well (the margine for error was zero). Now awaiting arrival of left hand tap and die for the wheel shaft, and need to work on some other finishing parts. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane3005_zps1b468ddb.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 14, 2013, 10:04:56 AM: Got the wheel threads cut today, installed the wheel (it fit and works perfectly), and I think it's finished - if anything ever really is. May need to replace some of the damaged hardware and oil and polish it up well and etc. etc. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5012_zpse030a6fb.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5015_zps2dae7327.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5014_zpsbbaa6e6e.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlowPlane5007_zps19440399.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on August 14, 2013, 11:46:53 AM: Ralph

I'm running out of things to say. Just fantastic work that you are doing. Thanks for sharing it with us. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 14, 2013, 03:47:05 PM: Ralph.

I've got the same problem as Don! :scratch:

I usually say, that is beautiful...... :thumbup:

But, to be honest, that's not true, this time....... That is GORGEOUS! :bugeye:

Blummin well done! :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on August 14, 2013, 04:16:43 PM: Hi Ralph , quality as usual :drool: :drool: :thumbup:.........as the lads are saying they really are things of beauty. You must be putting some hours in Ralph, they seem to be rolling of the line every other time I look ...................... Santa would love you to be one of his elves I bet :D

I am aready looking forward to the new one ..........keep up the exellent work

:beer: Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 14, 2013, 08:25:20 PM: Thank you Gentlemen. I do appreciate your observations and encouraging comments. I am doing this just for the fun of it all, but the acholades you ascribe to me do strengthen my resolve and are motivational. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 18, 2013, 02:32:07 PM: Remember this one (from page 3)?

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuild003_zpsdbfdbe04.jpg)

It's finished. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuildfin5005_zps58e32d37.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuildfin5004_zps17e29cb9.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 23, 2013, 06:39:58 PM: I had meant to post a comparative pic. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverscraperbuildfin006_zpsca75314f.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 28, 2013, 05:46:12 PM: Started a nesw plane -- a # 4. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/PlaneFrog2002_zpsa7b1d7a5.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on August 28, 2013, 07:03:49 PM: Ralph

Looks like it's going to be another nice plane. I'll be watching for the finished product. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: raynerd on August 28, 2013, 07:48:17 PM: I am blown away each time I read this thread!!

What draws your interest to miniature tools?
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on August 28, 2013, 09:29:43 PM: Love the silver scraper! I'd like full size version for Christmas instead of a lump of coal this year, if possible. :)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 29, 2013, 11:37:51 AM: Thanks again Gents. The #4 is progressing slowly -- more challenging than I had imagined. I have just had a lesson on how to better appreciate a "simple" Lever Cap with the proper, working mechanism - lever. Just build one 1/4 scale with a cam and a lever which work together to make the part functional to better appreciate the part.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Planelevercap001_zps5ac41116.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Planelevercap002_zps9191d25e.jpg)

Maybe that I shouldn't have been so bold as to declare something that I'm not sure I can do - that I'm not sure anyone has done, but I'll keep after it and see what / how it turns out in a week or so. If not for the price of silver, I'm sure that we could have a full size one within a couple weeks. Imagine Gold.

I started out as a creator of jewelry and learned many skills of the trade. Then I learned that noone wanted to buy trinkets nor pay well for treasures, but I realized that I could amuse myself and create stuff that I liked and would be gald to keep if I "got stuck" with it. I started my own line of 'Pocket Jewelry" (copywright) for the well dressed - a tiny gold hammer for the carpenter, a tiny pipe wrench for the plumber, etc. And have never tried to sell any, so my managery (and my skills) have grown. I have comissioned some pieces, but don't really like to build duplicates, so I tend to collect all my creations. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 30, 2013, 03:20:19 PM: The lever cap turned out nice. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Levercap5001_zps0be98fe9.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 30, 2013, 04:45:02 PM: Quote from: flyingtractors1 on August 30, 2013, 03:20:19 PM
The lever cap turned out nice. Ralph

Oh, yes it did! :thumbup: :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 31, 2013, 11:50:54 AM: Finished. . . I think. It works beautifully. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4Planefin_zpse7fe7142.jpg)

See it in action here

[ Invalid YouTube link ]
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on August 31, 2013, 02:52:13 PM: Ralph

I'm running out of words to adequately describe your work. It's just fantastic. Thanks for sharing it with us. :clap: :clap: :clap:
:D :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on August 31, 2013, 03:10:35 PM: That's a beauty! :bow: :clap:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on August 31, 2013, 04:29:18 PM: Once again Ralph , total class :drool: :drool:, looks and works superb............... the whole collection really does deserve to be on display full time somewhere.
Keep up the good work.
:beer: Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 02, 2013, 12:49:13 PM: Thanks, Gents. I appreciate your thoughts. Now working on a "new" frog, having learned some from building the first one. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/newfrog002_zpsc14dbbf5.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/newfrog001_zps7df3b68c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 08, 2013, 07:08:35 PM: I am going to try to cast a copy of the #4. This is quite a complicated and lengthy process. It starts by creating master patters of each individual component and arranging and mounting the parts so that they can be suspended in a frame to create a rubber mold. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild009_zps6ac19ea4.jpg)

Master Patterns are works of art in their own right. Here are the masters for the pipe wrench and the monkey wrench. This is how the parts were arranged to create the molds that resulted in my finished tools. I suppose that full scale tools may have been pressed (pounded) on giant machines, but I employed the methods available to me. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MasterPatterns001_zps1093f8ff.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/MasterPatterns002_zpsece9b25b.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/BenchandToolsleftside003_zps7ef6d42f.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 14, 2013, 04:25:27 PM: After the master patterns are constructed ( a trick in itself ), rubber molds are made by packing uncured rubber around the master suspended in a rigid frame.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild001_zps178cbe5c.jpg)

The packed frame with the master within is baked (vulcanized), and a solid rubber brick is formed.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild002_zpsdea81b74.jpg)

The master pattern is carefully cut out along the parting lines leaving a cavity in the rubber brick the shape of the master into which molten wax is injected and allowed to cool and solidify resulting in a wax pattern identical to the master.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild004_zpsd0fcab82.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild005_zps049b80e2.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild006_zpsc496c4a4.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/4planebuild007_zpscf741df8.jpg)

This wax pattern will be trimmed and adjusted as needed (they never come out perfectly) and will then be suspended in a flask, surrounded by investment (plaster) and placed in an oven to be melted out (lost) leaving an identical cavity in the plaster mold into which molten metal is then poared.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: NickG on September 15, 2013, 03:12:30 AM: Brilliant stuff, thanks for explaining about the pattern making.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 16, 2013, 03:06:08 PM: Preliminary results of the casting with lots of finishing to do. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess002_zps29021ad8.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on September 16, 2013, 05:25:55 PM: Hi Ralph, nice work as usual, you sure keep youself busy :thumbup: , A friend of mine does lost wax casting , he uses liquid silicone rubber to surround the parts, I think he tried the vulcanised method but found this way easier and better results. How do you do the actual casting bit Ralph ? do you just pour it into the moulds like sand casting ?. The reason I am asking is my friens either does centerfudial casting where the mould is held in spinning fixture and soon as the molten metal is in the mould a trigger is pulled and the mould spins flinging the metal into the void, or he also does vacum casting where the flask with the investment plaster is under a vacum while the metal is poured in and its sucked into minor details.
The reason I mention this is you seem to have some defects in the plane baseplate , the stuff I have seen him do is very detailed and they seem to come out as good as the wax was with no defects at all. I can find out more detail if you would like to know Ralph.
Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 16, 2013, 06:32:20 PM: Hi Mick. Yes, I do use the centrifuge casting machine. I think that the imperfections here were the result of mold making imperfections. I do believe that I will try the easier liquid silicon rubber mext time. Please stand by; I may need more help as it goes. Actually, things turned out decently well, but still too much finish work to do. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess4001_zpsf3c78603.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on September 16, 2013, 07:10:11 PM: Hi Ralph , it looks good to me :bow: , I am sure you will be getting stuck into the finishing work as I type :thumbup: . It stands to reason that something can only be as good as the pattern or mould, making and sprueing the waxes is an art in itself I think, so if that one was not 100% in wax it would have them blemishes.
Just give me a shout if you want any more info, my mate does things as a hobby so has found ways of doing things without costing the earth but has learnt the hard way too so might be able to save you some learning the hard way lessons and some tips on the best way he has found to get results. He makes replica Roman items , broaches, buttons, buckles etc so very detailed but also very similar to the items you cast overall really.
Don't forget to have a break for some food once in a while and try to get at least some sleep Ralph :clap:
I am looking forward to the finished thing , Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 19, 2013, 08:09:40 PM: The Silver #4 is finished. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silver4-5_zps547e4161.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess94001_zpsc33b60ed.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on September 20, 2013, 05:32:57 AM: Total class Ralph :drool:

Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: PeterE on September 20, 2013, 12:08:39 PM: Just enviable :drool:

Ver very well done :clap: :clap: :clap:

/Peter
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 21, 2013, 10:36:37 PM: Working on a Gold model #4 plane now. The casting turned out ok. Now lots of work to make the finished model. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess104001_zps89c9e9fc.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 01, 2013, 08:04:11 PM: Some progress. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess104002_zps4d84f136.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 09, 2013, 02:11:51 PM: The gold #4 plane is finished, and it works very well. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114010_zps8e12c4cc.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114005_zpsa4f76fbe.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: philf on October 09, 2013, 02:17:25 PM: Ralph,

That's another absolutely stunning piece of work. :clap: :bugeye:

Phil.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on October 09, 2013, 05:36:53 PM: Hi Ralph , top clas as usual , its amazing how much better it looks with the final buffing compared to when it was on the graph paper.
Whats the next challenge then ?

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 09, 2013, 08:31:32 PM: Thanks Phil.

Thanks Mick.

I do like to work in gold. Wish I could do more, but . . .
Don't know what will be next. These last ones were so challenging I may need to do something easier to recover from the intensity. The gold #4 plane took a 2.0 oz shot and yielded a piece weighing in at 1.54oz. Most of the remainder was recovered, but it was a highly anxious poar with $2000 + of molten metal to shoot. I held my breath . . . , and all went well. It was a perfect poar. Doing the finish work was pure joy once the mold was broken open, and it became clear that the poar was a success. But after that, nothing has caught my eye. What could compare to that? I couldn't get any higher, and now I'm floundering - looking for a cause. Any ideas?

Ralph

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on October 10, 2013, 02:29:20 AM: Quote from: flyingtractors1 on October 09, 2013, 08:31:32 PM
What could compare to that? I couldn't get any higher.
Ralph

Ralph.

I've got to agree. Well done, just doesn't seem enough. :clap: :clap:

I'm in awe......... (http://smileys.on-my-web.com/repository/Respect/respect-061.gif)

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on October 10, 2013, 11:44:36 AM: Ralph

Absolutelfy amazing bit of craftsman ship. You have set the bar high this time. Thanks so much for sharing this with the MadModder comunity. :thumbup: :clap: :clap: :thumbup:

I don't know what to suggest for you as a next project. Take a bit of time to smell the roses, take a walk, take your sweet wife out to dinner (wearing her new ear rings of course) and I'm sure something will come to you when the time is right. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 11, 2013, 11:25:14 AM: Thanks again, Don. I appreciate your thoughts and the wisdom of your advise.

I really did shoot for the stars on this one and may have found the extrent of my reach,
but I grew immensely by the experience and am still not sure what the limits might be.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 11, 2013, 02:08:40 PM: Some reflections on the Gold and Silver # 4 planes. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114019_zps9ae2198c.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114017_zps4f8e230b.jpg)

Different light

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114020_zpsb7296107.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114016_zpscc2b94cc.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on October 11, 2013, 02:43:02 PM: Hi Ralph,
More planes to add to the collection, great finishes you have achieved, I do think the Philips head screw looks out of place, I would change that for a normal type. I have been involved in antique horology for a long time, and wondered if you had thought of using watch or small clock makers knurling tools, which would better match your scale. Small straight knurling wheels are quite easy to make.
Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 11, 2013, 06:14:37 PM: Thanks, Dave.

David, Thanks for your thoughts. I agree about the phillips head looking out of place and have remedied that by using a flush pin through both sides that is snug but can be punched out if needed. I am using a small Swiss jewelers knurling tool, but don't have a straight knurling wheel and am using the smallest wheels I have found. Any idea where I can find the likes of those you recommend? Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on October 12, 2013, 05:36:57 AM: Hi Ralph
Pleased you have removed the Philips head screw. I have a couple of maybe suppliers :- Cousins Clock Materials (Tools section), and Meadows & Passmore Clock Materials, that I have used. These small knurling tools are difficult to source. I thought the wheel from a cigaret lighter might be hard enough to knurl brass. The other option would be to make your own from silver steel and harden and temper it. What are the diameters of your adjusting screws?

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 12, 2013, 12:15:17 PM: Hi David,

Thanks again for your insight. Thought I'd share pics of the knurles that I am using for your edification.

on 1/4 " graph paper along with a cig lighter wheel:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/knurlwheels001_zps47897594.jpg)

on my thumb nail:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/knurlwheels002_zps1ae28b10.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/knurlwheels004_zps04fedb8d.jpg)

I just can't imagine a knurling wheel any smaller. If there is such creature, I do, indeed, need it. I'll search the sites you recommended.

Might it be that the difficulty here is that the #4 plane is so small in 1/4 scale at 2 1/4 inches (57 mm)
that the knurling, tiny as it is, appears disproportionately large, or does it ?
Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on October 14, 2013, 07:24:04 PM: Hi Ralph , them knurls are even smaler than I thought they would be ! I know this would be a tough one to try but have you ever thought of doing one of the planes with the steel sole plate and the brass sides dovetailed ? Karl Holtey has a good website showing them getting made in full size, they look class when done so would look even better in miniture :drool: Food for thought anyway Ralph :coffee:

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 19, 2013, 08:38:03 PM: Well Mick, I have thought about building one of those infill planes with a silver sole and brass sides dovetailed, etc. They must be a trick to build in full scale and more so in miniature, but I am moved to try building one, though I don't know the first thing about that type of construction - just what I've seen on the net, and I'm just not sure where to start. :loco: Perhaps I should give it more thought. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on October 20, 2013, 04:19:49 AM: Hi Ralph,
here is a link to Karl Holteys blog on his site, I dont know if you have looked at his site before but it has excellent photos and info on all his A1 quality planes :bow: :bow:, I am sure he would be interested in seeing photos your collection Ralph, he seems like a decent fella as I have seen him commenting on others work and giving advice on the British Blades knife forum. This link shound take you to a series of photos of him doing the brass dovetails :drool: I am more than sure you could do them Ralph, I think they might be easier to do in small scale too maybe ? Here is the link http://www.holteyplanes.com/blog/2010/02/07/window-to-my-workshop-38/#more-946
I think you will enjoy looking through his site, I have spent hours looking at it and I am not really into planes, if you like engineering and quality his work looks second to none so well worth a look :drool: :drool:.
He has some other interesting ideas of riveting the steel and brass together too so might give you some other ideas Ralph :thumbup:, This link should solve the mystery of the dovetails. As it happens I met an old guy from my local area years back making planes in his shed doing these type of dove tails perfect without much equipment, just a mill and hand finishing.
Keep up the good work Ralph I look forward to seeing your next project :thumbup:.

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 20, 2013, 06:56:06 PM: Hi again Mick,

Thanks for the idea and the links. Wow! I could never?. . . But will give it a good try. I really do think that building full scale would be easier - the tolerances are greater and more forgiving. Holtey planes and his build process are indeed most impressive. I don't have fine precission equipment - no mill, only jeweler's saws and files, but they have served me well in the past, and I've yet to find the limit of their utility.

Any way, the product is now well in mind (I can visualize it) and experimentation has begun. I've already learned several ways not to do it. Cutting those joints is tricky; they tend to inverse on me. It is further complicated by the fact that the joints are on different planes (perpendicular) and dovetailed. I am going to use silver and brass for contrast and to keep the jewelry motif that has become the trademark of my miniatures. Don't yet know what to use for the wood components. Progress may be slow on this one. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlane003_zpsbecb52d7.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on October 20, 2013, 07:12:12 PM: Ralph

I have faith in you that you will do an excellent job on this as you have on all of the others. I'm going to be sitting here watching as you gently massage all those bits of brass and silver and other bits into another excellent plane. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 20, 2013, 08:18:38 PM: Thanks for the faith in me, Don. I do appreciate your encouragement. I am going to learn a lot from this one - already have. I hope to have good results, but I'll post whatever results I get. Shucks! Now it has to be presentable (perfect). Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: RossJarvis on October 21, 2013, 07:12:53 AM: I am absolutely amazed at your skill and patience. And they work too :bow:

Good luck with the dovetailed jobby. As Don says, we have faith in you, you may not feel so confident now but it'll be right :thumbup:

Ross
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 21, 2013, 04:21:15 PM: Thanks Ross.

With all the encouragement given me, my confidence grows. A couple dry runs at it also help. I've cut a few brass pieces and even experimented with popsicle sticks and am less hesitent to cut into the silver stock, but the darn dovetails still have a way of "inversing" on me. A little more planning is still in order. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlaneparts001_zpse32d7002.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlaneparts002_zps567ea0e1.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on October 21, 2013, 06:07:17 PM: Hi Ralph ........................... I just knew you would have a go at one :dremel: :clap: and I also know you will keep going until you have a lovely dovetailed plane sitting there in your hand :thumbup: ....and I know you will do it too :med:
I am glad you are having a go at one Ralph but I must admit I had thought you had a mill which would make cutting the dove tails easier but then again if you have made all the previous works of art without a mill, why would you need one now anyway !
I am so confident you will do it I will even predict it wont be your last Dove tail plane and you will want to try several styles of plane with dove tails, once you have cracked the way to do them that works for you :bow: I think the silver and brass will look spot on too.
Only one thing Ralph , remember you do need to sleep and eat if you are to finish the mission :lol:

Keep up the good work :beer: Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 22, 2013, 07:57:53 PM: Hi Gents,
With all you guys rooting for me, I jumped right in (after dinner, Mick), then after braekfast. I took a break and had lunch. Then I proceeded to ponder the situation and took some serious steps. I decided to build a mock all brass model - not only because I felt insecure about cutting into the silver nor because I was afraid to mess up the silver, but also because I thought that a little practice on less valuable metal would do me good. Had good results, after dinner I might just jump right in and cut the silver sole. Or I might just wait a while to cut the silver.

This is where I am so far.

Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry1001_zps05b871ab.jpg)

My wife always makes me wash my hands before taking pictures, but she's not here now, sssooo I didn't. Probably will have to before dinner this time.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry1003_zps95a4e624.jpg)

The side and sole really are dovetailed, but it peened so perfectly well and buffed out so nicely that the zig zag detail lines disappeared, so I highlighted some in pencil. Can'y wait to see the silver / brass contrast on a buffed and polished version.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry1005_zpsa652b0d8.jpg)

Had to try the wood work also. Wanted Ebony, but don't have any so went with African Blackwood. That stuff cuts hard and carves beautifully. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on October 23, 2013, 02:00:03 AM: Pencil highlights!! :bugeye:

That explains the totally unexpected, "vice jaw" marks, I thought I could see........ (http://serve.mysmiley.net/rolleye/rolleye.gif) (http://www.blueislandsdiving.com)

A mock up, maybe. But, to your usual high quality Ralph. Despite the dirty hands! :thumbup: :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on October 23, 2013, 06:19:05 PM: Hi Ralph, You are almost there now !! :clap: :clap: , Looking good so far . I can almost picture the finished thing in silver and brass already and it will be a fine sight thats for sure :drool: Congratulations so far ( and glad to see you have been eating too ) I think the dirty hands gave nice contrast !

Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 24, 2013, 01:31:17 PM: Well Gents, a little progress, actually alot, on the dove tail plane project. Cutting the dove tails by hand was a challenge. I did several practice runs with brass, learning lots each time, before cutting into the silver. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry2003_zps292d86f3.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry2002_zps6b782caa.jpg)

Then went for it. It peened well and fit snug. It was filed and sanded smooth, but when it was buffed the dove tails virtually disappeared as the bright finish of the brass seemed to blend with the brillance of the polished silver. At this scale the dovetail joints are almost invisible. This is not the way to present it - not worth all the work if it doesn't show. But as I heated it to solder in another part, the silver toned to black, and the joints became beautifully visible. I'll work more on that knowing that polishes silver can be acid toned.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry2004_zpsecb7d6c8.jpg)

Then I worked a little on the wood parts. . . still not sure what style to go with. In the mean time, I'll work to clean up the body.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry2001_zps311b74e5.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry2006_zps29fe57e8.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DovetailPlanetry2007_zps609a13bd.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on October 24, 2013, 06:05:33 PM: Ralph

That is just fantastic. We are going to have to quit making suggestion for your next model. It's hard to imagine what you might go for next. With patience like yours it is clear that you do love the challenge that each new model brings. Thanks for continuing to let us watch over your shoulder.
:D :thumbup: :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 25, 2013, 04:16:19 PM: Thanks again Don. I'm not entirely pleased with the way that these first two progressed and turned out, :( so, as Mick predicted, my next project is likely to be another attempt. I still don't have that good feel of mastery - just got by on guts and by chance I feel. I need to make one from start to finsh with the feeling that I have all it takes all along the way, that I know what I'm doing, what to do next and why. Then I will have earned it. :beer: Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Kjelle on October 29, 2013, 03:15:00 AM: I wrote about this guy earlier, and I think I have reason to do it again... NOT to detract your work, Ralph, to the contrary

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb/antique-machinery-history/my-miniatures-auction-274239/

Follow the link too, there are some good pic's there!

Kjelle
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 29, 2013, 06:06:44 PM: Thanks Kjelle. I am aware of his work and enjoyed viewing the links you shared again. Something to strive for. Ralph

My Dove tail planes as they turned out the first time around.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DoveTailPlanesfin2002_zpseab25ceb.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DoveTailPlanesfin2001_zps8b4d0b16.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on October 29, 2013, 07:57:40 PM: Hi Ralph considering you had not even thought about doing this style and sounded like you were even doubting if you could manage to do the dove tails , I think you have made a top job of them :bow: :bow:
I assume it wont be your last dove tail plane either :thumbup: When I first mentioned the idea I did think you had a mill Ralph so what you have managed is all the more impressive due to it all being hand work .

I look forward to the next project :dremel:

cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Kjelle on October 30, 2013, 02:31:40 PM: Mick, I must say you are really, really good! Keep it up, I'm just in awe of your work!

Kjelle
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on October 31, 2013, 12:33:20 PM: Kjelle, if this was meant for me, Art Rafael (AKA - Ralph - flyingtractors1), I appreciate it, though I'm sure that Mick also does good work. Ralph

Anyway, Here's an example of my work at its worst. I measured once, and I measured twice - - - then I cut it all wrong. I'm still having trouble wrapping my brain around this dove tail trick. Will try again later. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DoveTailerror002_zpsd9397a00.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Kjelle on October 31, 2013, 02:00:45 PM: Sorry Art, It was! Wrote in a bit of a hurry, didn't check as I usually does...

Kjelle
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on November 01, 2013, 07:16:33 PM: After butchering several more pieces, I think that I've got it now. And I'm sure now that I could do it again but probably won't because it is just too difficult to do cleanly at this scale, although this one turned out just perfectly. Still, I'm not really confident that I could convey the procedure in any coherant way. Those dove tail joints are so unforgiving, and every little error is magnified. Will just try to finish this model now that the hard part is done, but just don't feel up to it for a while. Maybe a more quick gratification project before continuing work on this one. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DoveTailtrial002_zpsda400e67.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/DoveTailtrial003_zpsa525653e.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on November 04, 2013, 11:09:47 AM: Finally I have some acceptable results. Ordinarily, after I build one model, I have no desire to build another copy, feeling that I have mastered the one - whatever it happens to be. In this case with the dove tailed joints, I had no idea how the first one was done after it was finished. So a second attempt was made only to resolve that I did not yet KNOW how it was done, though the results were "acceptable". The need for a third attempt readily became apparent and was soon under way. This time I took CAREFUL note and documented every step. The final results are acceptable, and I now know that I can do it again, though decidedly probably won't. But I find that if the metals are brightly polished, the visible joints disappear. A satin finish to the surfaces best shows the dove tail joint detail. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3DoveTailfin004_zpsb2fa3f04.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3DoveTailfin2002_zps870e3837.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on November 16, 2013, 08:32:28 PM: Well, I've managed to get a little something done this week - two little somethings. My wife wore her pair of plane ear rings to an outing, and now I have orders for more -- and I mean Orders. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Silverplaneearrings2002_zpseb4ceb9a.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on November 17, 2013, 02:29:23 AM: Wow, Ralph! Orders!? :bugeye:

Well done! :clap: :clap:

Hope you make your fortune! :thumbup:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on November 17, 2013, 12:00:25 PM: Yes, my wife has ordered me to make a pair for her friend and a pair for her sister and . . . . :whip: No $ to be had, so it may take a while. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on November 17, 2013, 12:51:48 PM: Aahhhhhh............

Orders, from On High! :bugeye:

Sorry Ralph. I misunderstood....... :palm:

:)

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on November 17, 2013, 05:42:12 PM: Hi Ralph , items looking very impressive as usual , almost enough to tempt me to get my ears pierced :lol: , That is one problem with making quality nice items , you often get 'orders' .............I try not to let people see half of my things for this reason , I find people quite often think it takes half an hour to knock something like those ear ring up :bugeye:

As most people on the forum will know its not quite as quick as that !!!!, Keep up the good work , Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on November 17, 2013, 07:58:50 PM: Thanks Mick.
You are so right. Most folks that are not invested in the craft just don't know and can't appreciate what it takes to create to specs in metal. In jewelry art the part can look like anything (a metal splatter, etc,), and if you put a hook or broach pin on it it can pass as a "work of art". But in tool making the product has to look like the intended piece, and it must work properly. Now make it 1/4 scale and other critical elements come into play. Like you stated, " As most people on the forum will know its not quite as quick as that !!!!, " And that is why this forum is so vital. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on November 21, 2013, 01:47:10 PM: A new "scrub plane" in progress. Next comes the wood tote and knob. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/giftplane003_zps066a59b4.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 02, 2013, 01:01:52 PM: This plane turned out nice with Ebony tote and knob, and it works beautifully. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/giftplane3002_zpsa74f38d6.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/giftplane3003_zps5f9e47df.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on December 02, 2013, 05:33:27 PM: Another quality bit of work Ralph :bow: :bow: :thumbup: , again if your hand was not in the photo it would just look like a shot of the full size real thing :thumbup:. What is next on the project list then ?? I bet you have something in mind.

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on December 02, 2013, 05:37:40 PM: Oh, Ralph! :bugeye:

That really does look the business! Well done! :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 05, 2013, 04:38:55 PM: Thanks Mick.
Thanks David.

Yes, I've had my eye on this little cutie and just had to have one. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplane003_zps27d1125c.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplane2003_zps969540b8.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplane2007_zps60617c24.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on December 05, 2013, 06:00:35 PM: Ralph

I've run out of nice things to say about your work Ralph. I guess that means I have to start repeating myself. It is just unbelievable the way that you can make them at that small scale. :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 05, 2013, 07:15:17 PM: Thanks Don. Great men often do repeat themselves repeat themselves repeat themselves :D As long as I know that there is interest in my stuff out there and I can create, I'll keep posting. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on December 06, 2013, 02:08:02 AM: What Don said, Ralph........ :thumbup:

Though. To my eye. There is a noticeable improvement in "quality", about these last two. If that's possible...... (http://serve.mysmiley.net/love/love0001.gif) (http://www.blueislandsdiving.com)

Well done! (Again). :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 06, 2013, 09:21:14 AM: Thanks David. Good eye - the latest were presentation pieces, and I did my very best to make them extra nice since they were special gifts. And the benefit for me was growth by the realization that I can improve my technique and apply higher level skill to produce better pieces. It takes longer, but time is in good supply (so far), and I'm not working for hourly pay. It also causes me to realize that there is always room for improvement, and I am personally enriched and more gratified. Thanks again for noticing. That is the greatest compliment (gift) of all. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 11, 2013, 08:12:49 PM: I liked this little plane so much just had to build another one. This one in brass with Rosewood accents. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplanepair003_zpsed01ac35.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplanepair004_zps71a0659b.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Ebonysmoothingplanepair012_zps8290d07c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 12, 2013, 01:46:21 PM: I'm starting a new miniature plane build. This one is an original design and will be different from my earlier builds. Up to now, I have attempted to produce a small copy / representation / simulation of full scale planes that I have seen (in "person" or in pictures). Since this is an "original" compilation of pieces and parts in my awareness, I'll call it a "Shoe Plane" , and it will become evident why as it progresses. Ralph

Pieces cut and formed from sheet brass.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild001_zpsbaeda3dd.jpg)

and arranged in proximity.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild002_zps6d5b227b.jpg)

then silver soldered to form a unibody.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild004_zps45417f40.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild007_zps57753c57.jpg)

More as it develops. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on December 12, 2013, 06:23:01 PM: Hi Ralph , well I think those two are probably the best finished yet so what ever you are doing is working :thumbup: , I bet this latest one will look lovely around the radiused front end when finished too :drool: :drool:.
I dont know if you or anyone else interested to be reading this has seen the recent Gwinnet woodworkers video on Youtube,

at about 1 hour 19mins a guy has some miniture rifles then a selection of tool very like yours, you will no doubt know what each one is and may have seen them before Ralph but worth a look.
Keep up the good work :dremel: :thumbup:

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 13, 2013, 02:59:42 PM: Thanks Mick. It is winter and very cold out in Colorado, so I have more time indoors to tend to my projects + with every build I learn something which reflects on the next.

And thanks for sharing the video GWA video. I was somewhat familiar with Paul Hamler's work, but had not seen it in this detail. He built (mass produced) a lot of fine tools - miniatures 1/3 scale and full scale. I sure enjoyed the video and learned some things.

A little more progress on the shoe plane. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild013_zpsc8f8d784.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild015_zpse463cd3f.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ShoePlaneBuild011_zpsd6249b23.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on December 13, 2013, 06:47:54 PM: Hi Ralph , glad you enjoyed the video and also learnt some new facts :thumbup: ( thanks to whoever changed the link to a picture type link :thumbup: ), I am glad its too cold for you to go out as you sure seem to be cracking on with the shoe plane :lol: , I like the look of this one :drool: .
Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 19, 2013, 09:51:16 PM: Thanks Mick. You and others have encouraged me to build and post pics of my miniature all along. I don't know how many I've posted, but as you might imagine (or could have wondered), I do now have quite a collection, and rounded up most of them for a group picture.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/miniplanespic_zpsf14bb375.jpg)

To see a little more action, check out my YouTube channel
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: SwarfnStuff on December 20, 2013, 02:03:18 AM: Wonderful collection with many man-hours work involved. Thanks for allowing us to follow the journey. Are you game to guess just how many man-hours are involed? OR would you rather not know?
John B
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: S. Heslop on December 20, 2013, 02:05:27 AM: That's fantastic!

The fact you actually use them to build other stuff makes them even cooler.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on December 20, 2013, 04:37:40 AM: Hi Ralph
A great video, nice to hear you describing your collection. I and a lot of people I am sure would be interested in seeing how you investment cast your planes, and what materials you use in the process. May be you could make a little video.

Well Done Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 20, 2013, 10:35:29 AM: Thanks Gents.

David, at the bottom of page 1 is a sketch outlining the casting process, and the last 1/2 of page 4 illustrates the mold and wax pattern making process. They don't quite show the actual casting in process. Although I don't do castings all that often because the setup involves a number of complex procedures, next time I will do a pictoral documentation.

Yes, S. Heslop. The original reason that I built the first tiny plane is that I needed to accurately "plane" down some small components that I was building for a model airplane. And what do ya know? . . . I dont fly much any more, but am still building miniature tools and use them for other small jobs.

Well John, I don'y know how many hours I've invested nor what else I could have done with that time, but it's been a lifetime of either insane or sanity preserving endeavors - as hobbies (and obsessions) go. It typically takes 40 to 60+ hours to build a piece, and I've built close to 100 pieces. I don't even know where they all are. Many have been gifted to special people, and some just turn up here and there in unexpected places - nooks and crannies and niches where they have been stashed. The joy that I've had building and using (and showing) these little gems surely has been worth it all. So I just keep doing it - now almost entirely for sanity sake. It is my therapy.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: tom osselton on December 20, 2013, 01:34:46 PM: That is quite the difference I've seen your toolbox but had no idea you had all these others well done!
I wonder what the guiness book has for the handmade minature plane colection.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 20, 2013, 03:51:56 PM: Thanks Tom. Yeah, the collection has grown beyond my tool board. Now I may need to build a tool chest to contain some. I don't know that / whether Guiness keeps records of such things, but I'm sure that no one has created, for example, a 1/4 scale of a functional #4 plane (this may be the world's smallest) or of an actual 1/4 scale model of a legitimately dovetailed infill plane and some others. I have seen none nor heard of any. I'd love to see them if they exist, or maybe not - cause then I'd have to build a 1/5 scale.? Maybe we should research Guiness. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess114016_zpscc2b94cc.jpg)

and

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3DoveTailfin2002_zps870e3837.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on December 20, 2013, 04:10:27 PM: Hi Ralph, fantastic collection, they do deserve a special tool chest or case but you will have to leave plenty extra sapce for future projects as I am sure there will be more to come. It does make you wonder about the Guiness records, I would imagine they must be quite easy to work with as there oftern seems to school kids etc breaking records of all types.
Thanks for posting the video , for some reason I thought they looked even smaller in the video than in the previous photos posted................ as for the time spent, I would say its time well spent if you enjoy it and how many people will have spent more time watching tv or playing on Xbox type games and have nothing to show for it after all the hours :coffee:
Hope you have a Merry Christmas and a productive 2014 :D

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: NickG on December 21, 2013, 09:32:28 AM: Great collection, thanks for showing in the video.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 21, 2013, 11:11:04 AM: Thanks Mick and NickG.

I sure have enjoyed building and photographing (videoing) my models. It has been my therapy, but I'm not sure whether it has driven me insane or kept me from it. Sorry that the video was out of focus so much. :palm: Maybe I'll try another approach if I get a better camera for Christmas (blame the camera). Have a Wonderful Holiday. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 21, 2013, 07:34:58 PM: New "improved" plane collection video. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: SwarfnStuff on December 22, 2013, 12:47:26 AM: Hi Ralph, Just watched your ewcent video with much enjoyment. You certainly seem to fulfill the definition of the word, "Hobby:- An activity or interest pursued outside one's regular occupation and engaged in primarily for pleasure". Thank you once again for taking the time and trouble to share your hobby and giving us pleasure too.
Regards and Merry Christmas
John B
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 22, 2013, 12:09:57 PM: Thanks John B. It is gratifying that you enjoy my work. Knowing that appreciators, such as yourself, are interested encourages me to keep up with the photo industry and posting. As you so accurately described, I am a Hobbyist And a collector. One might add that I am a true amateur - "one who does something for the love of doing it". :D Others might say obsessed, since I can't seem to stop. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: mklotz on December 22, 2013, 12:33:03 PM: You may find the work of this fellow interesting...

http://www.finewoodworking.com/woodworking-plans/article/pro-portfolio-micro-maestro.aspx
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 22, 2013, 01:50:43 PM: Thanks mklotz. I do find the work of William R. Robertson interesting, motivating and inspirational. I had seen some of his work but not to this extent. I am totally impressed. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 27, 2013, 01:41:03 PM: New Project - And have previously built the essentials -- Master Pattern, Rubber Mold and Wax Patterns and did a limited production run (all I needed was 1), but plan to produce more of this model. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Monkeywrenchmoldamppattern2002_zps71bd84d1.jpg)

But first, it goes without saying that the Master pattern and Master mold had to be created to get to this stage. The Master mold building was presented earlier on page 4, and below is a pic of how the Master pattern was constructed which yielded the mold. Each component was hand carved / filed of hard wax and arranged with proper flow channels - that is, connected together with softer wax wire to form a single piece and providing channels for the molten metal to reach every part of the pattern. Then it was suspended in a plaster filled flask, and it was burnt out (lost wax). The remaining cavity in the plaster mold was injected with molten metal, cooled and finished (filed, sanded and buffed to perfection). This could be the end of the process if only one piece was desired, but to produce multiple copies - a Master Pattern has to be free of imperfections because every little detail will transfer to the rubber mold and then appear on the resulting secondary patterns.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/bluepatternpieces3_zps83cd5bc3.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on December 27, 2013, 03:38:18 PM: Hi Ralph, is the mould you show plaster of Paris, for casting the bronze?

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on December 27, 2013, 04:32:52 PM: Hi David. No, the mold shown on this page is the rubber mold which is used to create duplicate wax patterns. Wax is injected into this mold. Then the rubber mold halves are separated and the wax pattern carefully extracted after it solidifies. That pattern is then surrounded with plaster into which metal is poured after the mold is baked and the wax melted out. I'm working on the plaster molds now - pics soon. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 01, 2014, 06:04:55 PM: The mold halves are lubricated and ready for injection.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Mastermold-empty_zps2d24d64b.jpg)

Wax is injected.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Mastermoldwaxinjector_zpsb03e4702.jpg)

Wax patterns are carefully removed from the rubber mold, and a "tree" is formed with three patterns. This will call for a 3oz pour, and that is about as much as I can safely handle at this time.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Monkeywrenchtreeof3_zps905ef3f8.jpg)

The patterns are mounted at the bottom of a casting flask (in this case a 10oz soup can.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3waxincan_zps5198540f.jpg)

Plaster is mixed and debubbleized in an improvised vacuum chamber on a custom built vibration table.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastercansinvacuumpump_zps41269b73.jpg)

The flasks are placed in an oven to melt out the wax (lost wax) and hard bake the plaster molds.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastercansinoven_zps59346c74.jpg)

When well baked in high heat, molten metal will be injected (shot) into the cavities in the molds.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 03, 2014, 12:44:30 PM: The mold is in the centrifuge ready for casting. This is the most exciting part of the process and the part with the greatest risk where it can go dangerously wrong. This machine is a "broken arm" spring wound instrument that slings the molten metal into the cavity in the plaster mold. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastermoldincenterfuge_zpsfdd35f8e.jpg)

The cast "button" at the top of the mold is indication of a successful cast. it is from this button that the piece in the mold draws material as it cools and tends to shrink - the reason for using 50% more metal than the castings call for.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastermoldbutton_zps827deb56.jpg)

After the mold is broken open, there is evidence that it was a good cast. Next the cast is washed thoroughly and prepared for separation of the pieces.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/3castpieces_zps1bc2f583.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/piecescutoff_zpsdeb222a9.jpg)

cutting, filing, sanding, buffing & polishing will follow.

Other operations - drilling and tapping as needed.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/piecesdrilledtapped_zps88411ddb.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 04, 2014, 12:05:27 PM: (http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/piecesfiled_zps4e7e8841.jpg)

filed, sanded, buffed and polished

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/monkeywenchfin001_zps332aa64a.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/monkeywenchfin005_zps600d1b9a.jpg)

Nice tight grained wood accents complete the project, and we have a fine piece of pocket jewelry for the well dressed mechanic. Or it could be a vest pocket piece at the end of a stylish chain. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on January 06, 2014, 05:57:20 AM: Hi Ralph

Very interesting, and well illustrated

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 16, 2014, 07:22:49 PM: Thanks David.

I gathered up more of my miniature tools for a group picture.

See the video on YouTube. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/minaturetoolsphoto_zps8cea701e.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on January 16, 2014, 07:41:37 PM: Ralph

It looks very impressive to see your tools scatered about like that. Thanks for showing us how you go about making the moulds and then casting them. :D :) :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on January 17, 2014, 12:10:19 PM: Hi Ralph,
Like the video, I have only sand cast aluminum up to now, and am working towards casting gun metal and brass. I have built a new furnace which is capable of heating to 1600 c . I would like to make some smaller items, using plaster moulds and wax patterns. Is it possible to cast wax using a gravity feed with a shrinkage reservoir above? Is the plaster mould, plaster of paris, and can you gravity pour brass into these moulds, as I think centrifugal casting is beyond my capabilities?

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 17, 2014, 02:27:38 PM: Thanks David.

Quote from: Meldonmech on January 17, 2014, 12:10:19 PM
Hi Ralph,
I would like to make some smaller items, using plaster moulds and wax patterns. Is it possible to cast wax using a gravity feed with a shrinkage reservoir above? Is the plaster mould, plaster of paris, and can you gravity pour brass into these moulds, as I think centrifugal casting is beyond my capabilities?

Cheers David

In a word -- yes. When I started I used plaster of Paris as shown in my latest video = the split half plaster mold for the ballpeen hammers. I did it like we do sand casting with aluminum, since that was what I knew, but used plaster instead of sand, and I used a small split half carved wood pattern and small milk cartons as the frame container (cope & drag). Later I built a wax pattern and suspended it with a strip of wax in a small vegetable tin can and filled it with plaster then baked the mold in the kitchen oven at 500 degrees and melted the wax out (my wife still hasn't forgiven me for that - I'm glad that you have an alternate oven). Then I just melted some silver coins (90 % silver - sterling is 92.5%) in an old ladle (ceramic works best but I didn't have one so used an old iron ladle) and gravity poured it in the mold. It worked ok, and I have been trying to perfect the process ever since. First I picked up an old oven to use and a better torch (I'd had trouble melting metal with a hand propane torch - mapp gas was better, then I found an oxy/acc set and started using better plaster which had less bubbles (a commercial "investment" called "Satin Cast Investment" from Rio Grande jewelry supply store (800-545-6566) - find ordering info on Google, or go to any jewelry supply store. I have cast many metals from gold (melt temp = 1947degrees) to lead at 650, aluminum at 1200, brass at 1650, bronze at 1900. Just try it. You will find the imperfections and improvements along the way. A book I found helpful is "The Art of Lost Wax Casting - on the net or in jewelry supply stores. Wear safety gear and Good luck to you. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Manxmodder on January 17, 2014, 03:10:22 PM: Hi Ralph,

Thanks for sharing these, they are lovely items.

I don't know about you merely recommending a book on lost wax casting,I think you could write a very credible one yourself.

I have also heard of people using a slurry of dry wall finishing compound, or mud as it's referred to in USA, to coat wax patterns and then followed by baking to melt out the wax and dry the mud.

I intend to have a go at lost wax process myself to reproduce some finials and other ornamental components missing from the cast iron railings outside my house.

I'll be attempting them in aluminum or brass and then attaching them with threaded spigots and epoxy and after fettling and painting they should match in perfectly.

Thanks for a very informative thread and I'll Google that book on lost wax.....Cheers,OZ.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 17, 2014, 04:21:08 PM: Thanks OZ.

I appreciate your thoughts. I'm still exploring the art. There must be many ways to cast and many materials that can be used. Evidence has been found that dates back to antiquity and is believed to have been in use at different times on different continents suggesting that the casting process was independently discovered by many cultures. My understanding is that the lost wax casting process had become a forgotten (lost) process in the Western world, though is is now believed, based on advanced archaeology, that variations of the process have been used in the old worlds as far back as 3700BC as per items found in Southern Israel and later in South and Central America - not to mention The Far East. The process is believed to have been lost in the Western world due primarily to selfish zealot rulers who, not only had molds of unique precious items destroyed so that no one else could have such items, they ultimately had the artist put to death to ensure that no other copies could ever exist, and the art died with the artists. It is my understanding that the process was rediscovered in the West only recently (19th) century by a dentist looking for a better way to make false teeth. If the process had been known before that, George Washington would not have had clumsy wooden or ivory teeth. Archaeology and further research may yet teach us more. These are the primary reasons that I decided to explore the art - to demonstrate that it could be done with limited equipment and materials. In the Bronze age forms were scratches / carved out of rocks then filled with molten copper and alloys like brass, bronze. It islikely that there are other truths to be learned before I publish.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Manxmodder on January 17, 2014, 05:48:23 PM: Hi Ralph,
I guess it was the low melting qualities of bees wax and other waxy substances produced by plants and fruits that caught the ancients imagination sufficiently to experiment with them.

I see by some of your photos that you were using a raw unvulcanised rubber material,can't say I've ever come across that stuff before.

Have you ever tried 'Vinamold'(Vinyl Rubber) which is melted down and poured as a hot molding liquid and left to set?

It is available in different shore hardness which are defined by various colours for softer/harder compound.
It also has the benefit that it can be re-melted and used again when the mold starts to loose sharpness of detail,2grades can also be mixed to give an in between consistency.

I found the book on wax casting you refer to and I'll be having a copy of that.....OZ
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 17, 2014, 06:20:45 PM: Hi OZ.

I think that you are right about the ancient's use of bee's wax. I read somewhere that they also used tar and pitch to build patterns. And I have even used real insects (spider) encapsulated in plaster and burned to powder then vacuumed out whatever remained and shot molten gold into the cavity just as an experiment, and a most beautiful gold spider came from the mold with fantastic detail. Even the hairs on its body were evident. I've cast little live flowers and even a cricket this way. Makes one wonder what all is possible.

Uncured rubber of many sorts is available at jewelry supply stores. I have heard that Latex molds are easier to build and use, which I must try, but hadn't heard about "Vinamold". I just might try that. I learn new things every day - thanks. Rubber molds work great but are so labor intensive.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on January 19, 2014, 05:31:23 AM: Hi Ralph

Thanks for your advice, and details of your casting experiences.

Keep up the good work

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 24, 2014, 02:30:45 PM: Hi, everybody.

I am a builder of miniature tools, and also collect tools of sorts.
There are many vises in my group - most of them are small,
although also have several large blacksmith vises and vises of other sorts which are often used in my other shop (the barn).

My wife says that I should have as many virtues ; )

Pictured below are some of my smaller table vises if is the actual proper name.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld4007_zps945ff6c7.jpg)

Proper scale:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2017_zpsd9f763cb.jpg)

My intent is to build a 2/3 scale of the smaller vise. It should end up about 2 1/4 inches tall.
This will be a long build due to the many operations that must be preformed and the exacting nature of wax model building and the "lost wax casting process".
I will post as it develops.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on January 25, 2014, 08:40:55 AM: Ralph…..
I don’t know why but I love those type of vise’s, If I see them at the auctions I snatch them up, strangely I can’t keep them long enough people just buy the heck out of them……. :scratch:

Anthony..
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 25, 2014, 12:36:55 PM: Hi, Anthony.

I know what you mean. Vices of that type (all sizes) sure appeal to me. I search for them everywhere I go and on the net but find few - that I can afford. And I like miniatures, but have never seen or heard of any. So I'll have to try and build one. What is it about them that makes them so attractive and desirable?

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on January 26, 2014, 09:16:50 AM: Ralph..

In my mind they are very functional.

when a tool works they way it should it always appeals to me, to other people they just like the look, they have the appearance of being old worn and used even if there brand new.. another reason why i like them is back in the day when they made them and were needed more, the quality of materials and workmanship was first class.

I live in the middle of Maryland surrounded by farms and old time industry, i am an avid auction attendee, i come across these all the time, people now at the auctions are waking up to the appeal factor of these things so my market is drying up.

I cannot wait to see your scaled down model of one of these.

Anthony...
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 26, 2014, 11:30:04 AM: Hi, Anthony. Yes, these table vises are very functional. I use mine daily in my hobby work, and I collect them - when I can find any. They do look antiqueish, and I think that some of mine really are. Any way, I like the looks of them, and since my hobby is building miniature tools, I just had to try and build one. I've had this in mind for quite some time and finally just jumped in and have a good start. It will be 2/3 the size of my smallest and should be 2 1/4 inches tall. Ralph

I can visualize it.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2015_zpsa7571ab2.jpg)

From a solid hard wax block, a close approximation was cut

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith002_zpse22b4f45.jpg)

Then, as Michelangelo once replied when asked how he could sculpt such a fine elephant out of a block of marble, " All that needs to be done is to remove from the block everything that doesn't look like an elephant." I'm no Michelangelo, but I think that I know what a table vise looks like, and removed from the block of wax all the parts that didn't look like one and added flow channels and cosmetic touches.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith004_zps4b6a5154.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2027_zps6d0536cf.jpg)

There are many procedures to be sequentially followed. I plan to cast a solid metal master pattern from which a master rubber mold will be made to produce identical wax copies - the front and rear jaws are very similar. etc., etc.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Manxmodder on January 26, 2014, 01:39:53 PM: I'm paying attention....waiting for the next instalment.....OZ.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on January 26, 2014, 02:53:24 PM: Ralph

I've got a fresh bowl of popcorn here so I'll be along for the lessons as well. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 27, 2014, 03:28:05 PM: Progress is slow. The master wax pattern is placed in a flask (used a 10 oz soup can)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith013_zps863a8d15.jpg)

The investment (plaster) is mixed in precise proportion.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2029_zps9ebad430.jpg)

Then the molds are degasseg in a vacuum chamber on a shake table.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith2022_zps7d8cae42.jpg)

And cured at room temperature then baked in incrementally higher temperature to solidify and to melt out the wax (lost wax)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastercansinoven_zps59346c74.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 27, 2014, 04:15:10 PM: Now while the mold has been in the oven, I found time to work on other essential parts - the nuts and bolts of it all. Three sets will be needed. I could have purchased these components commercially; in fact, I do have some on hand - 2-56 threads at 1/2 inch long. But I am after an authentic look like an old vise in the barn. So I've decided to make my own hardware of square head bolts and square nuts of silver since I don't know where such can be found and wanted the total experience.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldnutsampbolts006_zps04057438.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldnutsampbolts003_zps118ba1a0.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldnutsampbolts001_zpsf3a4b01f.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldnutsampbolts2002_zps8e8b7142.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldnutsampbolts009_zps9e341015.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOldnutsampbolts008_zpse697e315.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 29, 2014, 08:35:18 PM: The casting of the master pattern went well.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/plastermoldincenterfuge_zpsfdd35f8e.jpg)

And when the mold was broken open it revealed a good cast. It looks a little crusty but will clean up nicely.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith3002_zps203d4843.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseBlacksmith3003_zpsb11c4b90.jpg)

Next comes the creation of the rubber mold for the production of soft wax patterns.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 31, 2014, 03:01:59 PM: progress every day. The rubber mold turned out good, and nice soft wax patterns resulted.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin020_zpsfb366f3a.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld6004_zpsb50bf8ad.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin020_zpsfb366f3a.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on January 31, 2014, 06:54:22 PM: Ralph....

looking good.

Question... tell us a little more on the furnace setup you have going there, I for one am interested because i would like to smelt small amounts of bronze for little projects and I never have smelted anything but i see your doing it in a small scale.

Anthony.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on January 31, 2014, 07:30:34 PM: Hi Anthony.

I don't have a smelting furnace nor anything that fancy.
Below is a small oven that I use to bake the molds. It is basically a small pizza oven that I picked up when my wife threw me out of the kitchen.
It can generate up to about 900 degrees, but that's not enough to melt even aluminum. It is used only to bake molds.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess2004_zps4cab14a2.jpg)

Pictured below is the casting machine I use to centrifugally cast metals that are melted in the ceramic crucible attached at the middle of the machine, but even this machine is not essential.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/CastingProcess2002_zpsb4b4cbdd.jpg)

For many years I did "gravity casts" and didn't have a casting machine nor a ceramic crucible. I just melted lead in an iron ladle with a fashioned wood handle extension using a butane torch to melt the metal. Then I did aluminum and even silver, but at that point I had trouble generating enough heat and ultimately found a used oxy / acetylene unit which I still use today to apply heat directly to the metal in the crucible, although I do now use ceramic melting crucibles which I found at a jewelry supply store. Just be safe. wear goggles and leather gloves, etc.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 01, 2014, 11:41:59 AM: Some progress every day. The metal casting went well, and the parts cleaned up nicely. Now alot of other details to put it together. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld6007_zps9ccb64d3.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ViseOld6009_zpse33952f6.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on February 01, 2014, 05:24:37 PM: More beautiful castings Ralph! :thumbup: :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 02, 2014, 06:02:43 PM: Thanks David, All went well - not easy, but well.

Thank you all for following the build process and for encouraging me along the way. I will post a few preliminary pictures today as I continue to document the process and hope to have more and a video up soon, although I am not as handy with a camera as with a saw and file. Ralph

For comparison - the final and the original after which it was patterned.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin4011_zpsa4ddabf0.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin4010_zps4c59e358.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin4003_zps4d0317b7.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin016_zps1b10b51f.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin015_zps41d18c22.jpg)

and just for fun :)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Visefin012_zps4855b953.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on February 02, 2014, 06:17:20 PM: Hi Ralph , another top class project, it looks better than the one you based it on .........thanks for posting , keep up the good work

Cheers Mick
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 02, 2014, 10:04:09 PM: The miniature vise action video is up on YouTube. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 08, 2014, 11:19:52 AM: New miniature chisel plane. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chiselplane001_zps340a40ce.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chiselplane002_zpsf938d082.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chisleplane3004_zpscbf89be0.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Chisleplane2001_zps8964f587.jpg)

This may not be such a useful plane,but it made for a nice miniature.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Manxmodder on February 08, 2014, 02:18:17 PM: Hi Ralph, lovely job on the miniature vice,it looks about the right size to grip a mouse by the thumbs and :hammer:

I,m planning to order some carving wax this week to make a pattern of one of the cast iron railing finials I mentioned in an earlier post. I'll then be taking a silicone mould from the wax master.

Have you any advice on grades or types of wax most suited to the job?.....OZ.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on February 08, 2014, 02:30:41 PM: Hi Ralph

Love the portable vice, but feel the square nuts and bolts look out of place. Some nice round head rivets would look more authentic. Chisel plane is fine.
Well Done
David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 08, 2014, 02:44:26 PM: Hi OZ.
For carving and filing, I like to use the Ferris "FILE-A-WAX" from Rio Grande in Albuquerque - it's on Google. But most jewelry supply stores carry it. By doing a silicone mold you save a laborious step of rubber mold making. I need to learn more about silicone molds. Good luck to you.
Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 08, 2014, 02:54:36 PM: Thanks, David.
An old vise I have in the barn has square nuts and bolts in this arrangement, so I took my cue from that and spent a whole day hand making the miniature square hardware of silver. So I think that I'll just leave it as is and let it cast an antiqueish look.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 19, 2014, 11:11:49 AM: Axes collection. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Axesminiature002_zpsa0a36289.jpg)

A comparative scale. Cast in silver with carved hickory handles.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Axesminiature004_zps91937c45.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on February 19, 2014, 02:18:50 PM: I keep on saying it, Ralph. And, it's still holding true....... :thumbup:

They're beautiful! :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Manxmodder on February 19, 2014, 11:52:35 PM: Wow Ralph,they're mighty pretty looking. :drool:

What next, a miniature wood stove to burn the miniature logs in?.......OZ.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 20, 2014, 08:40:11 AM: Thanks, David. I always do appreciate your thoughts.

Thanks, OZ. Well, here ya go. :D Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/scalestove.jpg)

That shiny thing on top is a Lincoln penny.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Manxmodder on February 20, 2014, 01:22:14 PM: Ralph,that is a real beauty,a full size one would also be equally desirable. :drool:
Is it the sort of thing that a foundry apprentice would make and is it cast iron?

Also,I'll pop a few photos onto this thread when I finish my pattern piece and get round to doing a silicone mold of the ornamental iron finial I referred to earlier.

Keep doing what yer doing.........OZ.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on February 20, 2014, 03:23:48 PM: Thanks again, Oz.

There is some debate as to whether the little stove is a salesman's sample or an exquisite toy.?? It is cast iron and designed / built to work. I don't think that it was designed for children to play with as such even in the olden days?

By all means, please do post your experience pattern making and mold building. I need to see how silicone molds work.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: MBgoneAK on April 17, 2014, 12:59:31 PM: Incredible detail! Your collection is fantastic!Thankyou for sharing!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 22, 2014, 07:10:43 PM: Thanks, MBgoneAK.
Here's a recent build based on a picture that I saw on the net. First, some of the component parts were fashioned.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench002_zpsfd1309a0.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench005_zps2424c757.jpg)

Then assembled in its rough state,

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench010_zps7a2d920b.jpg)

and polished to sterling silver luster,

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench016_zps88c74494.jpg)

and toned with a black patina as was the old original wrench. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench021_zps7d00cbf7.jpg)

A comparable scale. It is 1/4 scale and 2 inches long:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench023_zpsd2b76532.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 25, 2014, 12:40:13 PM: Here is the second model - this one with the offset diagonal jaw done in polished sterling silver and left untoned. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench2003_zpsf22120ab.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/ACMEWrench2009_zps34e53239.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: tom osselton on April 25, 2014, 02:08:57 PM: You sure do nice work alway's a pleasure to see your projects.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on April 29, 2014, 08:09:57 PM: Thanks, Tom. I appreciate your thoughts. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 15, 2014, 01:01:12 PM: I typically work in 1/4 scale but thought I'd do a piece in 1/3 scale based on an actual wrench that is 8 inches. The 1/4 scale is posted above, and here is a pic of both and the wooden prototype for comparison. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrench1-4008_zps939e0195.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrench1-4009_zps1e410772.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrench1-4013_zps13e11da9.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on May 16, 2014, 04:46:55 PM: In catching up with this thread I happened to open it at the vise above, and was amazed at the coincidence! Yesterday I saw the very same type of iron miniature vise and even picked it up to look at it better. I'd never seen one before like that, though I once owned a full size blacksmith's vise.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 16, 2014, 09:00:05 PM: Hi vtsteam. What a coincidence, really. I have a small collection of such table vices and like them plenty, so I decided to build a miniature model and document the procedures required to build one. The lengthy pictorial and video are posted further up this string. It was quite an exercise with many and complicated operations which tested me thoroughly. I sure am glad to have it my collection. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on May 25, 2014, 03:22:45 PM: And now there are Two. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/1-3Wrenchtwo2002_zps9940cd41.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on June 17, 2014, 09:10:12 PM: I have been pondering the idea to build a miniature model of an old timey car / wagon jack and have looked for a full scale model or suitable pictures for quite some time but have not yet found one like the one I remember from days gone by. As I remember, it did ratchet up mechanically, and a small click lever held it up while the handle was lowered to ratchet up another stroke. It worked similarly in the lowering mode. But I have been unable to visualize the the relative components and mechanical interaction of that jack and decided to build a model of one that I could visualize and whose picture I found on the net.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini008_zps5c94b054.jpg)

I did not photo document the build process since its design is very straight forward as evidenced by the finished model. And yet its operation is quite sophisticated in that the effort and resistance arms are configured on different planes and anchored on an elbowed fulcrum point allowing it to lock-over at the completion of the stroke. I didn't invent this mechanical marvel - only learned to appreciate it more as I attempted to create a miniature version.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini016_zps2dd18301.jpg)

Since this model was built entirely from bar stock (brass), and no cast parts were used, it is noteworthy that it required some complicated and delicate silver soldering operations. On various parts, several soldering operations were performed in sequence employing different solder hardness under carefully regulated temperatures so that one soldering operation would not cause prior joints to overheat and fall apart. Several times I messed up and had to start over.
This was a challenging project that helped me better appreciate mechanical relationships and learn torch temperature control.

Comparative scale:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini018_zps2f1a6846.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Jackmini003_zps73afdd2c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: tom osselton on June 18, 2014, 04:26:58 PM: Nice job I always look forward to see what you will undertake as a build.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on June 18, 2014, 05:23:48 PM: Ralph...

As always i enjoy your posts. This one is a knockout. :clap:

I can appreciate the the challenge in making this small wonder, i thoroughly understand your view about its mechanical action, very attractive.

Thank you for spreading your work on the net for all to see.

Anthony.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on June 18, 2014, 11:02:15 PM: Thanks, Gents. This model is so deceivingly simplistic that a picture of it can hardly reveal its true complexity and the fabrication challenge that it posed - especially at this scale. I appreciate your observations. Ralph

The action video is now up on Yoytube:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: greenie on June 19, 2014, 08:19:36 AM: Well done, but for 25 bucks, you can have an original. :)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Old-Farm-Wagon-or-Implement-Jack-Booster-Elite-Mfg-Co-Ashland-Ohio-/191211718964?pt=Folk_Art&hash=item2c851b4934
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on June 19, 2014, 10:36:25 AM: greenie, I am sorry that you lack the experience and wisdom to appreciate the difference. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on June 19, 2014, 02:33:32 PM: Hi Ralph

An interesting little project, it is nice to to make something like this, which has a historical background. The video and commentary explained the lifting principles very well.

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on June 19, 2014, 05:45:59 PM: Great video.

I got a railroad jack as you know once you have maxed out the lever a ratchet pings into place then the next push on the lever indexes it up one more run, this must of come after that design your portraying..

nice to learn about the history of it.

Thank you

Anthony.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on June 19, 2014, 06:14:45 PM: Thanks Anthony. As I wrote above, the jack that you describe is the type that I was originally looking to build but have not found a model to pattern after. Would it be possible for you to post pictures showing the operating mechanisms of the one you just described. As I remember, some had a small removable plate on one side that hid the internal mechanisms. I would need a picture of the mechanisms in there. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on June 19, 2014, 07:38:06 PM: Absolutely..

you will have pictures by Sunday this weekend.. i will take them and show you scale..

glad i can help.

Anthony
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: BillTodd on June 24, 2014, 03:55:23 AM: you may be interested in Bill Robertson's new forum dedicated to fine miniatures:

www.fineminiaturesforum.com/
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on June 25, 2014, 04:07:36 PM: Thanks for the word, Bill. It seems to have promise of being a nice forum. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 07, 2014, 09:47:44 AM: I have a good start on the next project, a compound mechanical lever lifting jack.
Parts and pieces are cut from flat brass flat stock. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII002_zps1a82b843.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: ieezitin on July 07, 2014, 06:20:01 PM: Ralph..

Looks like your off to a good start… That jogged my memory.

I apologize to you for not taking Photographs of my railroad jack like I promised, I am on the road right now, and far from home I will stick you in my To-Do-List on my tablet now which will remind me this weekend to do that for you.

Anthony.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 13, 2014, 04:22:34 PM: Progress. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII005_zpsf9b7807f.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII007_zps9c17d106.jpg)

Silver soldering can be a trick when several operations are conducted on a piece requiring careful heat regulation so as not to undo a joint with subsequent operations.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII012_zps28ae374f.jpg)

Doing everything by hand is tough and tedious. A mill sure would have come in handy for this project, but I am well acquainted with jewelers saws and files.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII026_zps0be3f4a7.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII029_zps527a7a05.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII016_zpsfa093ded.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 26, 2014, 11:16:51 AM: Some progress. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII032_zpse5626d0a.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII034_zps3341a77d.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2002_zpsbea2267d.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2005_zps79e0e5df.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on July 26, 2014, 12:22:11 PM: Hi Ralph

The Jack is coming on nicely, keep up the good work.

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on July 26, 2014, 05:06:43 PM: That's looking really good, Ralph! :thumbup: :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 28, 2014, 03:07:07 PM: Thanks, Gents. When building miniatures, sometimes the small "smaller" parts can be most challenging. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2008_zpsc8dec011.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2010_zps72aa511f.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII2015_zps2e49080e.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on July 30, 2014, 11:03:23 AM: The compound mechanical lever jack is about finished - may need some tweeking and polishing. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic012_zps0f88a69c.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic014_zps10b680f0.jpg)

A comparative scale

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic015_zpsbcbf6e49.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/JackII4ampBic028_zpsc7c0f5de.jpg)

See the action video on Youtube:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: awemawson on July 30, 2014, 11:25:03 AM: Very nice :bow:

I was using a very similar one to remove the wheel of my tractor a couple of days ago, but that was rated at 10 tons !
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on July 30, 2014, 07:43:54 PM: Looks great! :clap: :clap:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on July 30, 2014, 10:27:34 PM: Ralph

You continue to impress me with your ability to work with such precision at such small size's. Thanks for sharing with us. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on July 31, 2014, 03:49:37 AM: Very nicely done, and shown, Ralph! :thumbup: :clap: :clap:

The first, and probably the last time, I saw those types of jacks was around 1960.
They were being used by the maintenance crew, where I was a young apprentice.......

I watched them carefully, jack a long, 60'+(?), centre lathe, onto skate blocks. And, gently move it down the shop to the doorway.

The crane/ transport crew, slung it at either end, and started to lift it onto the transporter.

With a loud bang. The bed broke in two! :palm:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on July 31, 2014, 11:00:47 PM: Quote from: Stilldrillin on July 31, 2014, 03:49:37 AM

...With a loud bang. The bed broke in two! :palm:

David D

Oh man!!!! :bang:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 12, 2014, 05:53:28 PM: Thanks Gents.

I've started a new project - need to build some wheels, and I lack the experience to do a good job,
so I'll practice some.

I am building metal wheel to resemble old farm implement wheels and used a section of brass plumbing pipe for the rims.

Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1002_zps0fc8e176.jpg)

The hubs were turned and drilled to accommodate 1/16 inch spokes.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1021_zps6fd54733.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1004_zpsad8bd589.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1008_zps0ffef6c6.jpg)

A device was developed to help ensure that the wheels and hubs were true when the spokes were inserted.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1017_zpsd1699711.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1018_zps213b63bd.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 16, 2014, 10:27:12 AM: A nice, true wheel resulted. I may have finally figured out how to build one.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1013_zps603f0a03.jpg)

and then another

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels1023_zps0cca32e6.jpg)

Two more and we will have a set for some four wheeled contraption. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on August 17, 2014, 06:25:12 PM: Hi Ralph, looks like you have it cracked :thumbup: , what diameter are the copper rims ? , looking forward to seeing what the implement is :coffee:

Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 18, 2014, 03:32:34 PM: Hi, Mick. Yes, I'm moving right along. I've done it two more times and now have a complete set.
The larger (rear) wheels are 1 3/4 inches diameter and the smaller (front) wheels are 1 1/2 inches.
I've considered a number of implements but as of yet was just trying to learn how to build good wheels.
Having accomplished that, I think, the next step is now worthy of serious consideration. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels2017_zpsf33c3d4b.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on August 18, 2014, 06:26:57 PM: Looking good Ralph, I remember seeing lots of good models of farm impliments at the Harrogate model engineering show, I might even have the odd photo , if I have I will post a couple, they were all sorts of ploughs hay balers etc, all really detailed.
Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on August 19, 2014, 03:47:44 PM: "Nice wheels", Ralph! :thumbup:

Well done. :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 24, 2014, 12:44:42 PM: Thanks, David.

I think that these wheels would go well on a horse drawn wagon or a sulky plow, etc.
But I've about decided to try to build a drawn grader like one that I remember operating in my youth.

Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels4Grader001_zps77e5fc75.jpg)

I have not been able to find 1/4 inch brass "I" beam nor "H, "C" etc, so decided to build my own.
It looks crude, but a good solid "T" beam built of 1/4 x 1/4 inch might work.
Both top and bottom rails were cut and formed then tied together tightly with wire and silver soldered along the whole length.
And did it twice with good success.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels4Grader007_zpsf5012874.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 27, 2014, 09:34:01 PM: It's coming together . . . slowly. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/Wheels4Grader015_zps1a285204.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/FrontWheels4Grader006_zpsa5b7393c.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: tom osselton on August 28, 2014, 12:11:01 AM: Looking real nice Ralph I like your stump too!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 30, 2014, 01:47:53 PM: Thanks, Tom.

Built the frame and turntable for the blade.
Now work on the blade and mounting apparatus. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeBladeFrame004_zps41941ef4.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on August 31, 2014, 11:32:17 AM: The blade and mounting frame came together well.

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeBladeFrame006_zpsc62a3cc2.jpg)

The turntable rings fit together properly allowing the blade angle to be adjusted and locked. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeBladeFrame008_zps4bf2407a.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 02, 2014, 03:12:37 PM: An evener and double tree (two single trees) used to pull the gtader by a team of draft horses:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGraderDoubleTree001_zps16b8960a.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGraderDoubleTree006_zps5b65f6c9.jpg)

A comparative scale:

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelGradeDoubleTree003_zps6a4aa140.jpg)
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 05, 2014, 10:16:25 AM: The miniature road grader is completed. Now it needs a little tweeking and cleaning up. Ralph

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin002_zps9f574bf6.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin003_zps35818322.jpg)

(http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s405/flyingtractors1/WheelsGraderfin005_zps17abf483.jpg)

See the action video on YouTube:
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: dsquire on September 05, 2014, 12:03:58 PM: Ralph

Very well done. This brings back some very old and dear memories for me. My Grandfather had a grader like this and was often out grading the township and county roads. This would have been in the late 1940's. Thanks for sharing this with all the members. :D :D

Cheers :beer:

Don
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Stilldrillin on September 05, 2014, 12:16:00 PM: You still have the knack, Ralph! :thumbup:

Beautifully made, and presented. Well done! :clap: :clap:

David D
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: micktoon on September 05, 2014, 05:52:03 PM: Top quality job Ralph, and nice video too, it would be great if you could find some model horses to scale to have harnessed up too.
Cheers Mick.
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 05, 2014, 07:31:42 PM: Thanks, Gents.

Most of my project ideas came right out of my youth, and they help connect me to the days when I was my Dear Old Grandpa's shadow.
He was an incredibly talented and highly skilled craftsman, and I just loved "helping" him with everything as he encouraged me to develop my ideas and skill.
Though he has been long gone, he is still very much with me when I do this, and that may well be why I do it - for those dear memories.
It would be nice if we all could get together and share memories at length.
And perhaps that is exactly what we do on this forum.

I am still looking for those miniature horses, Mick.

Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: Meldonmech on September 09, 2014, 04:56:24 PM: Hi Ralph

Great model, are you going to cast the horses?

Cheers David
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 09, 2014, 07:01:08 PM: Hi David. I might just cast bronze horses, carve wooden horses or harness a hefty pair of squirrels :whip: :lol: :lol: Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: tom osselton on September 10, 2014, 05:47:03 AM: I agree they may be gone but we can spend a lifetime making them proud!
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: nel2lar on September 20, 2014, 12:02:45 AM: Ralph
You are blessed, my wife seen a lot of what you have done and I think she was more fascinated than I. And I was astatic. Wonderful work and be proud for it is all professionally done.
Please continue what you love to do.
Nelson Collar
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: SwarfnStuff on September 20, 2014, 03:31:35 AM: Once again, well done and presented Ralph. I too remember these old graders as a boy. The local council used them on the gravel roads, etc. Now I shall just have to wait for those horses to appear. Thank you so much for posting.
John B
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: flyingtractors1 on September 20, 2014, 01:54:40 PM: Thanks, gentlemen, and thank you to your wife, nel2lar. I am delighted that you all appreciate my work.
I do throw myself into my work wholeheartedly and enjoy sharing it with appreciative viewers.
I still want to make my Dear Old Grandpa proud. Ralph
Title: Re: Miniature Tool Collection
Post by: vtsteam on November 30, 2014, 09:22:10 PM: Wow, that is so cool! :clap: