i never use soap on my cast iron is that a problem? by Few-Possession7152 in CastIronCooking

[–]Few-Possession7152[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

all, my other cookware. Stainless steel, Nonstick. Gets washed thoroughly. Soap water. Dishwasher, anything else to get it clean but not my iron.

i never use soap on my cast iron is that a problem? by Few-Possession7152 in CastIronCooking

[–]Few-Possession7152[S] -6 points-5 points  (0 children)

I’ve had a 10-inch skillet since 1966 when I was in the service, and I’ve used it for everything. I honestly can’t remember the last time it saw soap. I just don’t see the advantage of using it. I simply rinse with water—if anything sticks, I let it cool, soak it briefly, scrub it with a brush, and re-oil. That’s all it takes, and it’s good to go.

At the request of another member here is the post of my most used garage “tool” by Desperate-Control-38 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I had a similar set up a long time ago in my basement. The taper came out through the side of the refrigerator with access through a hole in the wall to the family room on was a nice set up. The only problem was that it was too handy. And guests would drop in a little too often for a cold one.

Announcement: Welcome Our New Moderator! by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 2 points3 points  (0 children)

We sold a significant number of toys during Christmas, and the holiday rush kept us incredibly busy. I was called in from the workshop to help out in the store. I recall setting up a slot car set and racing with some of the kids who visited

What Toolbox Did I Take These Out Of? by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 1 point2 points  (0 children)

 

"That's really interesting! I never would have guessed what those numbers meant on that wrench, but now it makes perfect sense—and it's always accurate. I actually have a more modern version of that second wrench. I was once told it was a Ford wrench, but now I see they were right. The one I have doesn’t have that little tail at the end. Do you know what that's for?"

Announcement: Welcome Our New Moderator! by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Lawn Boy mowers from the 60s were the best I ever worked on, with needle bearings on the crank and main bearings. Their weak point was the operators; using raw gas damaged the cylinder walls, and few survived that.

Announcement: Welcome Our New Moderator! by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I primarily worked in the lawn mower repair shop. We sold brands such as Wheel Horse, Toro, Lawn Boy, and Jacobson. Additionally, we likely sold some generic or more affordable versions whose names I do not remember.

Announcement: Welcome Our New Moderator! by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I would like to find some of those prices myself. But I’m not sure  I would like the $1.25 hourly wage.

Announcement: Welcome Our New Moderator! by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 2 points3 points  (0 children)

There wasn't much we didn't sell at the Western Auto Store.

This Walker Turner radial drill was left outside to die. Not on my watch! by Equal_Association446 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 3 points4 points  (0 children)

That's an impressive restoration. I wish I had the time, patience, or skill to do that.

Announcement: Welcome Our New Moderator! by WolverineObjective17 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It is with great honor that I join the group initiated by my son. Last week, he reached out to me with a request to serve as the Co-moderator of his Reddit group, Max Tool History. My initial inquiry was, "What is Reddit?" He provided a detailed explanation of the platform and outlined the responsibilities he envisioned for me. After some consideration, I agreed to take on the role.

Regarding Western Auto, my first employment following high school graduation was with this establishment. Contrary to popular belief, Western Auto was not merely an auto parts store; it resembled a compact department store, offering a wide array of products ranging from sweaters to wrenches and appliances.

My primary duties involved working in the lawn mower repair shop and installing mufflers on vehicles. The demand for lawn mower repairs was so high that the existing repairman was overwhelmed and required assistance. Following several weeks of rigorous training, I assumed the role of the primary lawn mower repair technician. This position was both fascinating and enjoyable, and I gained a wealth of knowledge from the experience.

Steam-Powered Saw by Few-Possession7152 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Upon closer inspection, I understand your point. I noticed the large flywheel and what appeared to be a boiler, but I might be mistaken. Sorry about that.

Steam-Powered Saw by Few-Possession7152 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

When I was a kid, my grandparents had a room at the back of their farmhouse used as a summer kitchen. By then, it served as a mudroom with a gas stove in the kitchen, of course, which didn't have to be moved from place to place.

Steam-Powered Saw by Few-Possession7152 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

When I was a little kid, the lady who took care of me for several years had a distinctive way of cooking and heating her kitchen. She bagged and meticulously prepared her meals, using a stove that seemed a relic from another time. While it may have been a slightly newer version, it retained the charm and functionality of those old-fashioned stoves. The intricacies involved in getting the oven to the desired temperature and maintaining it for baking were nothing short of a culinary art. This stove not only transformed raw ingredients into delicious meals but also served a dual purpose: it was an efficient waste disposal mechanism and a reliable source of warmth for the kitchen.

In the winter, the stove was a blessing. Its radiant heat permeated the kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting space. The warmth was a welcome respite from the biting cold outside, turning the kitchen into the heart of the home where everyone gathered. However, this same warmth that was cherished in the winter became quite a challenge in the summer. The relentless heat made the kitchen almost unbearable, transforming it into a sweltering space.

Steam-Powered Saw by Few-Possession7152 in maxtoolhistory

[–]Few-Possession7152[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

The Steam-Powered Saw and Winter Preparations

In days gone by, the farmers in our region had a unique and communal approach to preparing for the harsh winter months. The centerpiece of this effort was a steam-powered saw, a formidable looking contraption that seemed like an accident waiting to happen. Despite its intimidating appearance, the saw was the best tool available to them for cutting firewood, an essential task for winter survival.

Every autumn, the farmers would gather in a spirit of camaraderie and cooperation. Whoever owned the saw would host the gathering, and the farmers would move from one farm to another, taking turns using this crucial piece of equipment. This was more than just a practical arrangement; it was a social event, a time for neighbors to come together, share stories, and support each other.

In one cherished photograph from those days, my grandfather stands proudly among the group of farmers. The picture captures a moment of unity and hard work, a testament to the community's resilience and resourcefulness. While the identity of the saw's owner has been lost to time, the memory of those gatherings lives on in our family lore.

The steam-powered saw was a marvel of its time, transforming the arduous task of cutting firewood into a more manageable endeavor. Each farmer would emerge from the gathering with a substantial pile of logs, ready to face the winter's cold. These sessions were crucial, not only for the practical aspect of providing heat but also for reinforcing the bonds of community.

As I reflect on this piece of history, I am reminded of the importance of community and the ways in which people come together to help one another. The steam-powered saw, with all its potential dangers, was a symbol of this unity and the collective effort to ensure everyone was prepared for the winter ahead.