Just picked up another Stuffer that needs restoration and this one has a rotten handle. I know what I would do to repair it but has anyone here already dealt with this ?
Dan got the pic up . Thanks Dan. Well has anyone actually changed one of these out? I am planning on grinding the "weld" off the back side of the handle and drilling out a file handle to replace it. These were not welded so to speak. They were made in a foundry and I don't know the exact process the old blacksmiths used to flatten out the mounting bolt to the handle of the stuffer. Lot's of hammering on very hot metal I assume. Just seeking advice from anyone that has restored one of these handles.Post up a pic .
Joe , I have not , but I think stuff like that was " cold peened " so maybe no heat was involve when assembled .Just seeking advice from anyone that has restored one of these handles.
I was thinking the same thing . The mounting bolt for the handle was Hammered or peened to set it. I was just going to grind it off enough to knock it out and replace the handle and then tack it back with some nickel rod . I picked this 4 quart up for 45 bucks and a little sandblasting and cleanup,Heat treat ,Repaint and it will be as good as new and best of all it's not made in China!! Thanks for the advice PJJoe , I have not , but I think stuff like that was " cold peened " so maybe no heat was involve when assembled .
A little heat and a pin punch might push it out of the hole , and leave enough to re-peen it after you put the new handle on . Might be worth a try .
Or ,
Grind it flush , push it out and drill and tap the side of the mounting hole and use a set screw .
Not yet . I have sandblasted everything to get the paint off and I am heat treating the drum and plates now . Did you come up with a better plan ?Joe , did you do anything with this yet ?
I was cleaning up in the shop earlier , and found a piece of a handle I had done for a Kamado grill . It was done in 2 halves then glued back together . Just a thought . Not sure how well that would work for what you have , but sometimes an idea will lead to something .Did you come up with a better plan ?