The PHILCO Phorum
89 Cabinet - Printable Version

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89 Cabinet - skyscraper - 02-25-2014

Here we go, model 89 round two. The radio is electrically restored, but the cabinet needs a little glue, veneer and maybe eventually a refinish.

I've never done any woodwork, so I really have no idea what I'm doing Icon_rolleyes

The grill is missing a patch of veneer. So far I've glued two 1/32 sheets together to match the 1/16, and cut it to the general size with a dremel routing bit. Here's where I am now:

[Image: https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-lY7Wfl2E9BM/UwwRCU0qrKI/AAAAAAAACLU/X53SkLELfJA/s640/DSCN3135.JPG]

How do I cut it to the exact size? Should I just try to go really slow with the dremel and sand the finished edge? Is it better to glue it down before or after cutting?


Thanks,
Will

RE: 89 Cabinet - Warren - 02-25-2014

That would depend on how good you are wth a dremel tool. You could get it close then use a file to make it just like the rest. It's usually a little easier with a file especially once you are close to finishing it. Take your time. Do you have a round or half round file?

RE: 89 Cabinet - tab10672 - 02-25-2014

Dremel makes a 4 piece mini routing bit set that matches that cut pretty well, instead of the router base dremel makes another attachment (not sure what its called or used for) that looks like a mini router base, smaller than the actual dremel router base (you will know when you see it) that is easier to work with and hight adjustable. All sold at Loews.

RE: 89 Cabinet - OldRestorer - 02-27-2014

I would steer away from the dremel. One slip will damage everything.
Learned from experience. I usually will hold it in place and draw the lines where it should meet and then carefully cut a little away at a time with a razor. Once it is close i will just use a 100 grit paper and sand it little by little testing the piece every few passes. It is tedious but pays off.
This is all before gluing.

RE: 89 Cabinet - tab10672 - 02-27-2014

With the "router" base, you cant slip, the stop on the bit keeps it from going into the wood any farther than the base of the piece being routered. I wouldnt attempt it free hand... If thats what you mean.

RE: 89 Cabinet - skyscraper - 02-27-2014

Tab, is this what you mean? http://www.dremel.com/en-us/Attachments/Pages/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=335-01

My 'dremel' tool is apparently a Shop Basics, I don't think it will fit.

I'll keep whittling with the razor blade.

RE: 89 Cabinet - tab10672 - 02-27-2014

That is the actuall "router attatchment" but its big and bulkey. They sell a smaller "cutting base" with bits (i was at lowes lastnight and looked for the name of it) it is much smaller and easier to handle. If your dremel has the removable cap at the chuck end then it will fit. The router bits come in a pack of six with one bit that matches your grill.
http://www.dremel.com/en-us/Attachments/Pages/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=565
http://www.dremel.com/en-us/Accessories/Pages/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=692

RE: 89 Cabinet - tab10672 - 02-27-2014

If you plan on collecting philco cathedrals (and others) this set comes in really handy,

RE: 89 Cabinet - skyscraper - 02-27-2014

It does unscrew.. Never noticed it before, I've had it for years. The guide looks perfect, thanks so much tab.

Final question for now, is it possible to match the finish on just this piece? The rest of the cabinet is in decent shape.

RE: 89 Cabinet - tab10672 - 02-28-2014

Ive seen other techniques mentioned here but I use a minwax stain marker "special walnut or dark walnut depending on how dark the original wood is" I color the new veneer until it matches then clear coat as necessary. They are also good for touch up and scratches.

RE: 89 Cabinet - Jake Blake - 03-10-2014

I'm now beginning to think the THREE coats of paint I stripped off my 89 was a GOOD thing....protected the wood.
My cabinet is in much better shape now, than this.