Restoring a Grabow

[markem]

Early this year, I bought a bunch of estates that included this Dr Grabow Viscount 101 patent.

Finally cleaned it up. Needs a better hand than mine to bring it all the way back, but it is looking okay. The main problem is the connection for the screw in stem. At some point it must have been torqued pretty good. When seated, it overturns by about 1/8th a turn. For now, I have created a space using 2 layers of painters tape. Does anyone have experience fixing this type of thing or maybe I just keep using tape?

https://i.imgur.com/gQrwIgU.jpg

[Conch Republican]

That looks really good! I bought a couple older ones to try my hand on, but I can see needing a buffing wheel to make and serious progress on stems!

[physiognomy]

Good job, Mark! I’ve seen folks on the forums fixing this clocking issue with Teflon tape. Same as what you’ve done. Seems less risky than attempts to heat & reset threads, etc.

[markem]

but I can see needing a buffing wheel

I have a Dremel, different size buffing pads, and good quality hard wax.

[Conch Republican]

Really? Tell me about the pads... I only know what I have seen on PSD or pipes and cigars for restoration discussions!

[markem]

Really? Tell me about the pads... I only know what I have seen on PSD or pipes and cigars for restoration discussions!

Go to Amazon and search for Dremel buffing pads.

[Conch Republican]

I don't see Drexel, but continuing to look at options...

[markem]

I don't see Drexel, but continuing to look at options...

should have written Dremel

https://www.amazon.com/dremel-buffing-pads/s?k=dremel+buffing+pads

[DAFU]

Nice looking pipe! I used to enjoy the restoration process and all are solid puffers.
I used teflon tape on the screw of an old Kaywoody that couldn't turn enough. Tape stays close to the stem so you really don't notice it.