problem embarrased (Part II)

[Delwin D Fandrich]

Delwin D Fandrich wrote:
> 
> pianoman wrote:
> >
> > Anyone know how I can temporarily release the epoxies' hold on the leg bolt
> > to turn it out a little more.  Are there any solvents or would heating the
> > bolt end do it?  Any help?
> > I am really looking foolish on this one.
> > James Grebe
> 
> Jim,
> 
> I know of no way to "temporarily" release epoxies' hold on anything.
> There are no chemical solvents that will soften epoxy. At least none
> that you would want to use. I've been told there are some, but they
> would probably destroy the wood along with softening the epoxy.
> 
> You will have to heat the bolt. A propane torch with a fine tip should
> do it. Do your best to protect the wood around the bolt with a "heat
> shield" and slowly heat the bolt until you can remove it.
> 
> You don't need (or want) to get the bolt red hot. Play the flame on the
> bolt for a minute or so, then let it rest for a few seconds to prevent
> overheating the bolt and to allow the heat time to work its way down the
> length of the bolt. Repeat the process until you can work the bolt
> loose. Once you have it loose, remove it, clean out the hole and start
> over with fresh epoxy. The heat will have totally destroyed the
> original. You may well have damaged some of the wood as well, but you
> should be able to repair that with the fresh epoxy.
> 
> You know my motto: Measure twice, cut once. Then repair it with epoxy!
> 
> ddf

Addendum:
I should have added that most epoxy (with the exception of the specially
formulated "high temperature" varieties) starts to break down at around
175 deg. f. You won't have to get the bolt much hotter than that to get
it out.

ddf