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Waxing tool surfaces can help prevent rust. It also makes the surfaces slick so that it is easier to push wood smoothly across. For larger areas, I like to use SC Johnson paste wax. I rubbed a thin film on the bed of my jointer with an old sock. When it dried to a light haze, I buffed off the excess with a cotton cloth.

For smaller surfaces and hand tools, I like to use Door-Ease stick lubricant. It is a paraffin and mineral oil based lubricant that comes in an easy to use stick. It is a dry lubricant that does not attract dust. It works well on planes and saw blades. I’ve used it on all kinds of sliding surfaces such as drawer sides, miter slots, and even my metal-cutting bandsaw blade. Do you have a tailgate glass that creaks while driving? Rub a little on the glass where it touches the weather seal.

An older article I wrote showed how to double flare tubing…

Double Flaring Article

A reader wrote a rather lengthy email, asking all sorts of questions about double flaring 3/16″ coated line.

I purchased a piece of 3/16″ coated line so that I could hopefully answer his questions. This picture shows the factory double flare on the end of the line. Note that there is no coating on the sealing surface.

After cutting off the factory flare, I stripped the coating from the end of the line using a wire brush in an air grinder. Wear safety glasses and be cautious of the maximum rated RPM of the brush.

In this picture I have forced the double flaring button down to the bar, backed off the flaring screw, and removed the button. I will turn the flaring screw down a second time to complete the flare.

This picture shows my completed flare.

After finishing any brake hydraulic work, carefully check the system for leaks. After bleeding the air out, clean all the connections with brake cleaner. Start the engine to provide power assist and press down hard on the brake pedal. Look closely for any leaks. A leak trace powder may help. It is a bright white powder that will turn dark if wetted with brake fluid. After a test drive, make a second inspection for leaks.

It is a good idea to practice double flaring extra tubing until you are satisfied with the flares you are producing.

I stuck a rare earth magnet to the side of my drill press. It’s a great place to store the chuck key.

Valve grinding compound is a grease mixed with an abrasive grit. To help remove a really tight screw without stripping, put a dab of grinding compound on the tip of your screwdriver. This will dramatically increase the grip.

Some things leak. Tubes or syringes of epoxy and JB Weld are notorious. If I think something might leak, I put it in a ziplock bag before storing it away. This will contain the mess to the bag instead of having it ooze all over a shelf or drawer.