VIDEO: DIY Poor mans lube heater

[Revolver]

I got this idea from this forum, made a DIY video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3ioBcfMD78

[Sasquatch-1]

Looks like a lot of work to me. :bigsmyl2: I use a hair blow dryer. I am sure a paint stripper would work to, but might get a bit too hot.

[Revolver]

Looks like a lot of work to me. :bigsmyl2: I use a hair blow dryer. I am sure a paint stripper would work to, but might get a bit too hot.

Pretty simple in my opinion, drill 2 holes and bolt it down. I guess there are many ways to apply heat.

I'll bet your method applies heat faster but I don't think I would like the noise of a blow dryer... although it would block out the noise of the rest of the family trying to get my attention every 10 minutes for something unnecessary. :D

[bruce drake]

I did the same thing a few months back for my Lyman 45. I used a thinner metal plate that I had screwed to a 2x4 and then bolted my Lyman through the plate and the 2x4 which is mounted to my workbench. Same idea on the iron as well. Worked great in the cold garage to get my lube flowing again. I mostly use BAC Lube so in the other 3 seasons I don't require the heat but I did need it this winter.

Bruce

[Sasquatch-1]

Pretty simple in my opinion, drill 2 holes and bolt it down. I guess there are many ways to apply heat.

I'll bet your method applies heat faster but I don't think I would like the noise of a blow dryer... although it would block out the noise of the rest of the family trying to get my attention every 10 minutes for something unnecessary. :D

Does get a bit noisy.

[462]

A 100-Watt light bulb silent.

[Revolver]

A 100-Watt light bulb silent.

I must have the old model, it doesn't have a place to screw in a lightbulb. :kidding:

[462]

I must have the old model, it doesn't have a place to screw in a lightbulb. :kidding:

Yep, mine is so old it also includes a buggy whip holder. I prefer old stuff to new stuff.

[geargnasher]

I did the same thing with some 5/8"x4" extruded aluminum. Difference is my iron has a braided cloth cord on it! I used a light for years, but it doesn't get the front around the die very warm. The heat sink works better.

Gear

[cb4017]

Looks good. Want to sell a piece of that aluminum and recoup your investment? :)

[462]

Gear,
I encase the lamp and lube-sizer with heavy-duty aluminum foil, which does a very good job of heating the far sides and fronts of the reservoir and the die areas. With care, a piece of foil will withstand months of wrapping and unwrapping.

[Revolver]

I would like to report back that after using it half a dozen times I am very pleased. I typically fire up the iron for about 3-4 minutes then unplug it. The heat continues to move and things soften up nicely. The heat is retained very well and lasts well through my sizing sessions (Typically 30-60 minutes).

[leadbutt]

Gj. I love to hear of inventions made from thrift store finds.

L. Bottoms

[LUBEDUDE]

Well done!

Thanks for sharing.

[David2011]

Looks good. I've had a similar setup for a few years and really like it.

David

[Echo]

I don't see that he included the pattern under the plate as an insulator - I think an insulator is desirable. Also - I would bolt the LAM to the plate, then use C-clamps to buckle it down on the workbench. Allows more flexibility. Otherwise, good effort.

[ombesb]

When I have done similar projects I take a large flat file or a flat plate and some sand paper and try to get a 70~80% flat on my surface.... like the bottom of your sizer. Then use just a little copper grease, available at an electrical supply store, and out line my contact area with it. Just need a little , but the heat transfer rate goes way up. Now with a little Kaowool from a refractory supply you could have that sucker too hot to touch!!!