I recently purchased a couple of hand planes with the intention of restoring them and learning how to use them. Unfortunately, I'm running into some issues and could really use some advice!
First, I have a Stanley No. 5 that won't seem to disengage the adjustment wheel no matter what I try. I've already sprayed it down with WD-40 and 3-in-1 oil, but it's not budging, and I'm worried it might be completely stuck.
The second one is a Stanley Handyman. I've managed to take it apart, clean it, and reassemble it, but the adjustment wheel doesn't appear to affect the blade at all. I've been turning it back and forth, but the blade doesn't seem to move. I'm guessing this might be a case of user error, but it's definitely been frustrating!
2 Answers
If the wheel is super stuck, try applying a little heat with a propane torch after removing the handles. Just be careful not to damage anything! Sometimes the heat can help break the corrosion.
For your Stanley No. 5, it sounds like you’re dealing with a stuck brass depth adjuster. I usually wrap the wheel with a cloth to protect it, then grip it with vice grips. Just make sure to apply some WD-40 beforehand to help loosen it up. When you tighten the vice grips, hold them in the middle to avoid bending the wheel.