Best glue for filling loose joints???

Deadblow | Posted in General Discussion on December 12, 2003 06:39am

I’ made the Rockler pattern baby crib/bed and some of the spindles weren’t tight so I used polyurethane glue, thinking the expanding properties would help. Well, two years and lots of abuse later, I’ve got some spinning spindles. I do not want to take the piece completely apart as many spindles are still tight. What would you recommend for this repair? Thanks

Replies

UncleDunc | Dec 12, 2003 07:49am | #1
That's not a bug. That's a feature!
DennisS | Dec 12, 2003 08:38am | #2
Dead -

If they're not in any danger of falling out and if the only thing that bugs you is that they "spin", could you drill a small hole throught the rail and the end of the spindle and glue in a small dowel?

...........

Dennis in Bellevue WA

[email protected]
jazzdogg | Dec 12, 2003 08:54am | #3
Deadblow,

This repair method, while not suitable for antiques (it isn't reversible) should yield the kind of repair you're after.

A West Systems epoxy repair kit includes small quantities of epoxy resin and hardener, as well as syringes, stir sticks, microballoons, etc.

Mix up a syringe full of appropriately thickened epoxy and drill a 5/64" diameter hole, in an inconspicuous location, that will enable you to inject epoxy into the joint. Insert the syringe in the hole and inject epoxy until it starts to squeeze out slightly.

When the epoxy has begun to harden, sprinkle with sawdust and use a small stick to press the sawdust into the epoxy and shape to conform to the area being repaired.

Left undisturbed until the epoxy cures, the joint will be rock-solid: no more spinning spindles.

Good luck,
Paul

Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.
PlaneWood | Dec 12, 2003 06:34pm | #4
Use a drop or two of Super Glue. It will wick in and be invisable.

PlaneWood by Mike_in_Katy (maker of fine sawdust!)
PlaneWood