As a follow up to "Reconstruction of a Smashed Recoil Starter” (https://www.arboristsite.com/community/threads/reconstruction-of-a-smashed-recoil-starter.336346/), here is the reconstruction of the accompanying tank housing, which required much more work. Not only was it completely broken in two, the carburetor box compartment was a twisted wreck.
Here's the broken handle. The handlebar was flattened to the point that even I was dubious about recovery. Since it was a big saw (MS460) I ordered an AM full wrap.
Views of the carburetor box from both sides. Note the extreme twist where the collar bolts go. Where to begin?
First step was to bring together the left sides of the box with copper wire and JB Weld. Heat was applied toward the top (scorched area) to attempt to bring the twisted part into alignment. Some places were pinched and would not align (right side of intake) . At these places, I used a sharply pointed carbide Dremel bit to cut along the pinched line. thus they became moveable and could be anchored with wire and then glued.
A view from both sides showing anchor wires and glue in place.
Anchor wires removed and holes filled. Upper edges of box have been heated and straightened.
After a shot of paint. Functionality rather than aesthetics is priority here.
For the reconstruction of the fractured handle, see part 2. No more photo space on this post.
Here's the broken handle. The handlebar was flattened to the point that even I was dubious about recovery. Since it was a big saw (MS460) I ordered an AM full wrap.
Views of the carburetor box from both sides. Note the extreme twist where the collar bolts go. Where to begin?
First step was to bring together the left sides of the box with copper wire and JB Weld. Heat was applied toward the top (scorched area) to attempt to bring the twisted part into alignment. Some places were pinched and would not align (right side of intake) . At these places, I used a sharply pointed carbide Dremel bit to cut along the pinched line. thus they became moveable and could be anchored with wire and then glued.
A view from both sides showing anchor wires and glue in place.
Anchor wires removed and holes filled. Upper edges of box have been heated and straightened.
After a shot of paint. Functionality rather than aesthetics is priority here.
For the reconstruction of the fractured handle, see part 2. No more photo space on this post.
