In a message dated 8/10/2000 8:29:09 PM, Bill S. wrote: <<"$ bill for soundboard clamps is going to approach $1K.">> Bill; The clamps needed for soundboard work do not need to be "heavy duty" clamps such as 3/4" pipe clamps. The purpose of clamping the soundboard in place is to obtain a solid glue joint and any pressure over and above that amount will only serve to start crushing the wood.....we don't want to do that do we? :-) Deep throated pipe clamps will work but they are essentially overkill, in my opinion. The important features for soundboard clamps are: a. Sufficient clearance of the foot to fit under the rim without marking the case. b. Sufficient throat depth to allow positioning the clamping head over the rim and cauls without marking the case. c. Ease and quickness of use...the MOST important feature when choosing between similar clamps for board work. Grizzly Industrial has the deep throated pipe clamps as well as several models of the "F" type clamp that Ron spoke of. There is one *new* model they are advertising right now with a 4" throat which sells for 7.75 for the 16" model up to 8.95 for the 24 inch model. They also carry the 2 1/2" throat Bessey clamp that Ron spoke of. Don't buy a 'bunch' of any clamp until you have tried it and held the thingee in yo grubby widdle hands..... :-) Finally, in my opinion, a Medium duty clamp is more than sufficient for soundboard 'panel' work. Questions? Jim Bryant (FL)
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