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

[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

[Branzig]

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

[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

[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