Re: [Harp-L] Cracked Chromatic Comb

[David Payne <dave@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

    In response to Joe's thing about taking one reedplate off. That's actually easier for a small crack. But you have to watch out that the reedplate doesn't pull the comb and make the whole thing bow and dry that way. You need to lay it reedplate down on a flat surface and let it dry with a weight on it. 
   
  
Joe and Cass Leone wrote:

On Aug 11, 2008, at 1:18 AM, jcolbyspell@xxxxxxxx wrote:

> Should a mere mortal attempt to fix a cracked chromatic comb. I 
> have a Super Chrominica that has the wall between an upper and 
> lower chamber cracked. What is the best method? Gorilla Glue has 
> been suggested. What have other people tried? I would rather put 
> time in it than money so I don't really want to replace the comb.
>
> Colby

The following is an excerpt from page 23 of my book 'Harmonica 
repairs for Strunzes'

1.. There is no reason to replace a cracked wood comb that is 
otherwise stable. By stable, we mean straight. level, plumb, not 
bowed, not twisted, or otherwise distorted.

You can use a plethora of household items and it is not necessary to 
run to the store. Some of the items are:
a... Model airplane glue (wood & fabic)
b... Model cement for plastics (styene)
c... Duco household cement (for china leather etc)
d... Thickened fingernail polish/varnish
e... Caulking (mix with an equal amount of water)
f... Elmer's white glue
g... Furniture glue

While I don't recommend super glue, that's what 'I' use. I mix an 
equal amount of super glue to an equal amount of TALCUM. UNthickened 
super glue will run right through a hairline crack and virtually 
destroy anything that is on the other side.

I remove only ONE reed plate and work the putty into the crack. 
Sometimes I use a toothpick, sometimes a sliver of razor blade.

If you want/need to match the color of the comb, mix in small 
'dustings' of Hershey's dry unsweetened COCOA powder until you reach 
the color you desire (Circassian walnut). Make a spatula about the 
size and shape of a guitar pick from the flexible lid from a coffee 
can or other food item. Work your putty into the crack(s). After 
allowing a 'gassing-off' period (say 2 1/2 hours) you're good to go.

There's more, but this will get you where you want.

smokey-joe and the Cafe s 

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