Opening a stem?

[Tobias Lutz]

Has anyone ever found the need to "open" a stem because the draw was too restricted? I have a Dr. Grabow Starfire that I really like, but I find that when it begins to warm up the stem closes near the mouth piece and I don't get enough draw to keep it lit. It has the "adjustomatic" threaded tenon, but no stinger. The shank and drilling in the heel are fine. Could I just use a micro-drillbit and turn it by hand? Any other suggestions?

[Branzig]

I don't see why you couldn't use a drill bit to open it up.

Assuming it is a straight stem that is :p

[Tobias Lutz]

I don't see why you couldn't use a drill bit to open it up.

Assuming it is a straight stem that is :p

http://images.wikia.com/glee/images/4/48/Artie_damn_straight.gif

[Branzig]

I say give it a shot and let us know how it goes!

:pipe:

[Will46r]

How far do you need to open it? Perhaps a tapered round file would work better.

[Tobias Lutz]

How far do you need to open it? Perhaps a tapered round file would work better.

Only about a 1/32" to 1/16", but where do you find a file that small?

[Branzig]

Only about a 1/32" to 1/16", but where do you find a file that small?
Didn't even think of a file!

Lots of jewelers and watch makers use micro files. You'd have to order them online though, unless you have an old time watch shop around that sells jewelry and watch making equipmemt.

Otherwise just google micro files

[Tobias Lutz]

I like the pipe, but I don't like it enough to buy something to fix it. What about heating a piece of wire that's around the ideal gauge, and pushing it through, starting at the tenon? Then use a little micro sanding to clean up the mouthpiece?

[Branzig]

I like the pipe, but I don't like it enough to buy something to fix it. What about heating a piece of wire that's around the ideal gauge, and pushing it through, starting at the tenon? Then use a little micro sanding to clean up the mouthpiece?

That might work.

Just use a hammer and nail :p

[Will46r]

Didn't even think of a file!

Lots of jewelers and watch makers use micro files. You'd have to order them online though, unless you have an old time watch shop around that sells jewelry and watch making equipmemt.

Otherwise just google micro files

I was thinking of jeweler's files.... I have several sets, one of those things where I assume everyone has em lol

[Emperor Zurg]

I'd use a drill bit. I wouldn't try to melt my way thru it. The taste of melted acrylic or melted vulcanite would be nasty. I'd take a 5/64" (or so) drill bit and wrap some masking tape around the shank for a little better grip and turn it by hand.

[OnePyroTec]

Once in a while I will use a drill bit with a counter sink to open the airway then a slot tool for opening up the slot at the tip.

[Will46r]

Most hardware stores carry jewelers files. I actually have better luck with the $3 harbor freight pack than my more expensive ones. I have dozens I have ground down for different knife making processes.

[mooster]

I was thinking of jeweler's files.... I have several sets, one of those things where I assume everyone has em lol

I can relate to that. Someone told me the other day that they didn't have a set of jeweler's screwdrivers and I looked at him like he was an alien life form...

[NeverBend]

Be very careful when using or creating heat with stem materials. Vulc tends to suddenly 'boil' or melt and lucite (acryliic) becomes unstable.

Your preferred method should be the one that scratches or scores the interior of the stem the least. The more rough surface inside the stem the more trapping of tars, moisture and taste (that can becomes foul).

Pipe manufacturers all use drill bits, often (usually) with a jig to hold the stem in place. I have seen one use a sandpaper string to clear debris (super fine grit).

Remember, with any tools that the pressure alone can cause damage to the stem.

Good Luck.

Pete