Re: ADVICE NEEDED IN REPAIR

[Sam <3dhacker@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

>Sam wrote:
>snip
>> Only
>> one problem: There is a large crack running dead center on the base plate
>> due to shrinkage. I don't want to fill it, and since the piece is laminated
>> several ways I can't clamp it back together. I could cut a strip out of the
>> middle and replace it with a new piece I guess, but would need it to match
>> the surroundings as close as possible. I don't want to strip and refinish
>> this, as the original finish is preferred.
>
>Now that is a problem, particularly since you don't want to strip
>and refinish. When I have encountered similar situations in the
>past I have done a variety of fixes, but all ended with
>refinishing. You don't mention if this is just a cosmetic problem
>or a structural failure problem.
>

The baseboard is still sturdy, although it has split where the tripod
attachment and another brass fixture were ( probably the weakest spot,
hence the split)


>Here are two quick thoughts that come to mind toward fixing.
>
>If you have a very good router and a very steady hand, route a
>thin band down the crack just to the depth of a strip of veneer.
>Fill the crack, pre-finish the veneer and glue it into place. 

This sounds like the best option. 
>
>A second option: get a long bit and drill a hole (or two or
>three) through the full width of the baseboard, from one side
>edge, through the crack, to the other side edge. Install a long
>bolt with an end-capped nut (maybe even counter-sink head and
>nut). Tighten until crack is closed. If you can find the nut and
>bolt in brass, it may end up looking as if it were always there.
>If counter-sunk, plug the holes with pre-finished wood plugs.

This wouldn't work, as there are perpendicular pieces glued at each end. If
I removed these I'd end up having to trim these once the middle piece was
re-attached, as the shrinkage in the middle would have to be accounted for. 
>
>A third option would be to sell it to me for $50 since its
>damaged goods.
>;>) :>)

Sure. But winter's coming up, perhaps I could also use it for fire wood!!!

Thanks,

Sam