Make sure that all your parts are clean. If you are using new parts it
is usually safe to assume that they are. If you have previously used parts,
you should clean them. Use isopropyl rubbing alcohol (surgical spirits
for those of you in the UK:) preferably 91% or 92%. Use a cheap generic
cotton tip swab. Brand name swabs such as Q-Tip™ (and even some better
generics) are to thick to fit in the barrel. Also, don't forget to
clean the threads on the foible and the 'other' end of the barrel.
You will also need a device for bending your blade. A doorway can do
in a pinch but you can make professional bender on the cheap. As a third
option, click here to buy
one from my online catalog.
Step #1
Carefully unwind your wire making sure that there aren't any kinks in it.
Make certain that the metal fitting is set properly in the plastic cup.
Insert the wire through the barrel. Pull it through until the cup is near
the barrel.
Step #2
Apply a small amount of thread locker to the foible threads (don't forget
to shake it up first).
Lay some of the wire in the groove of the foible.
Thread the barrel onto the foible being careful no to cross the threads
or catch the wire.
Tighten the barrel thoroughly but don't over do it as you could crack the
barrel or ruin the threads.
Step #3
To set the wire's cup into the barrel, gently tug on the long end of the
wire while applying moderate pressure to the cup with your point setter.
If you don't have a point setter, any "tool" that can fit in the barrel
will do (even a swab with the cotton removed). A point setter is
recommended, however. I makes the process easier, especially for
beginners.
When you're sure sure that you have it set correctly, lay the wire into
the groove completely.
Wrap the end of the wire around the tang and secure it with tape.
Put the blade in your bender (only a slight bend is necessary) making sure
that your wire doesn't come out of the groove in the process.
Step #4
Apply a reasonable coat of glue (not to much, not to little). The amount
you need depends on the type of glue you use. Be very careful
to avoid glue seeping into the barrel or onto the tang.
When the glue is dry, remove the blade from the bender.
Remove any excess glue.
Step #5
Test the wire with a continuity tester before further assembly.
If it checks out okay, assemble the point and recheck.
That's it, you're done!
Click hereto
learn how to finish assembling your foil.
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