Kenneth Michael Guitars est.1978

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Side bending  "low cost" set up

Our bending station is fairly extensive but, on occasion (not very often) we need to perform some hand bending operations. Mostly bindings and maybe re-bends on sides with tight waist curves. Our set-up could hardly be simpler.

The main bender is a 15” section of 3” diameter copper pipe we purchased at a local hardware store, aluminum would work equally well. The pipe is fastened to a piece of 2 X 4 using metal utility strapping and ¼’ nut and bolts. A piece of non-flammable clothe in placed under the pipe.  The material we use is from a pad used by plumbers to protect framing members etc. when soldering joints.

To capture the heat a piece of aluminum foil is crumpled up and stuffed into the end of the pipe.

The heat source is a propane torch lined up in the center of the pipe. I just set it on one of our miter clamps. A piece of wood could be used, note that the nozzle end should be raised slightly

Our binding touch up bender is made from a “stained glass artist’s” soldering iron. This one is 100 watts --  a little more power (200 watts)would be better. It was purchased off Ebay for $10 including shipping

The bender is made of a short length of ½ “ copper pipe, a ½” to 1 ¼” coupling and a piece of #12 copper wire

Flats are sanded on the soldering iron handle on both sides so it can be clamped to the bench securely.

Slip the ½” pipe into the coupling and drill a hole large enough for the #12 wire to slid through. Loosen the two screws that secure the soldering iron tip

Flatten the end of the ½” pipe so it is crimped onto the soldering iron tip and will not rotate.

Thread the wire through the holes --- wrap it around the tip retaining screws. Tighten the screws. Wrap the wire around the assembly than trim the ends

Please understand that both these tools can cause severe burns and if left unattended they are CAPABLE OF CAUSING FIRES

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