Advice on lapping the sole of my #90 shoulder plane

I would take a good strait edge and verify that you have an issue before lapping. I would not be excited about removing the nickel. Also, perform all of the other tuning activities and try the plane out, I may be fine without any lapping.

-- We must guard our enthusiasm as we would our life - James Krenov

I’m with Wayne; but of course if it isn’t flat – I’d want it flat! Or – I’d want another shoulder plane! Or two.

-- Dorje (pronounced "door-jay"), Seattle, WA

Jeff,
Are going to keep it and use it? collect it and sell it? Put it on a shelf and look at it? If you want to keep it and use it, make it work. It’s a tool and if a tool doesn’t work it is a decorator item.(not a very good one either) I’ve got $40 in a #75 that is useless. I bought it long ago before I learned. It resides proudly on my racks to remind me that I’m not always very smart.

-- Thos. Angle

Sound advice fellas. The sole is fine but does merit a check with a straight edge. It’s a worker. It was just a bonus that it was that old. This said, the iron was either never ground right or messed up by a previous owner. I think it was the previous.

I think we all agree it’s gotta be flat. I will do what is necessary. I’ll just be careful not to flake the finish on the sides of the body if I do lap it. Start with emery paper on granite and move on from there. Thanks for the input.

-- Jeff, St. Paul, MN

Ever notice how every industry and hobby have their own language? How about this for You Might Be A LumberJock: You don’t think twice when someone says they are going to lap the sole of their shoulder plane.

-- http://www.north40custom.com -- http://north40studios.etsy.com --

So true Peter.

-- We must guard our enthusiasm as we would our life - James Krenov