Black And Decker Workmate.

[Tilly2]

I have acquired a workmate from one of my neighbours who no longer uses it and hasn't used it for 'years', he said.

I have managed to open it up and put down the legs and can get the wooden bits at the top to move by rotating the handles.

It is very rusty and dusty. What can I use to clean it up? I don't want to be squirting WD40 all over it, as it makes me cough and splutter. It there some sort of oil that would be best for this?

[Zacs-Master]

https://www.offthegridnews.com/how-to-2/how-to-make-amazing-all-natural-wd-40/

[The Builder]

Cooking oil and a small paintbrush, Tilly. Paint it all over the threads.

If the oil is a bit thick, dilute it with some vinegar. Rather crude, but it's worked for me a few times.

[Tilly2]

Thank you both, for those suggestions.
I can manage cooking oil and a paintbrush, Mr B and that's a very useful link, Zacs.
Now I know why I hate using WD40. :-)

[Tilly2]

Just one query, what is the 'step' part for at the front, at the bottom?

[klazomaniac]

As it is a mobile workbench Tilly. it is designed to put one foot on it whilst sawing etc to stabilise the platform and stop it from dancing/moving about.

Great piece of kit. I've had my one Donkey's years.

[Tilly2]

Thank you, Klazo. That makes complete sense.

I am one step nearer to making a bird box. :-)
Now, all I need is a decent saw that doesn't get stuck in the piece of wood I'm trying to cut.

[TonyV]

OK Tilly2 plan here for you depending on what birds you want to attract hole size etc or half front for Robbins

https://www.rspb.org.uk/fun-and-learning/for-families/family-wild-challenge/activities/build-a-birdbox/

[TonyV]

Tilly2 all you need is a bit of candle, I use tea lights just rub up each side of the blade every couple of cuts.

[klazomaniac]

Try Screwfix Tilly.

Irwin Jack 880 Universal is only £5.94 (good saw)

I prefer the Bahco 244 Hardpoint @ £8.99 (Razor sharp and fast cutting) and will last for years if cared for. always lay the saw down on a piece of wood to save the teeth from harsh abrasion.

[Tilly2]

Thank you very much, Tony.
My quest for building a bird box has been going on for some time. That is my 'to do' job. This year. your link is very helpful. Thanks again.

The tip about waxing the saw blade will help too.

[Tilly2]

Klazo, what do you mean by this?:-
'always lay the saw down on a piece of wood to save the teeth from harsh abrasion.'

[klazomaniac]

A lot of people tend to just put the saw on the ground after making a cut. Concrete will blunt the teeth. So always lay the saw across a scrap piece of wood. The wood will not damage the cutting edge of the teeth and therefore make it last a very long time.

[TonyV]

Tilly2 will send one to you one flat packed FOC, all you will need is a drill to put it up.

[TonyV]

And screwdriver to put it together. lol