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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Malfunctioning Vict. extending dining table
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Question
We moved house 18 months ago and took out the two centre leaves. I tried yesterday to wind back the table to re-insert leaves for a party but could only budge then an inch or two and unevenly one side compared to the other. The central winding rod and tracking appears fine (I even put WD40 on it) but possibly one of the tongue and groove extension channels underneath on one side appears to be sticking. I am afraid of forcing anything - any suggestions?
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P.S. I have perused your replies and you provide a simply wonderful service!
Hi Gerry (from Ireland)
First I'll say this is a lovely table.
This sounds like a problem caused by climate change.
Even if you just moved to a house across the street the new house could be slightly damper or drier.
Yes I agree that this should not be forced but often some "gentle persuasion" helps.
I have done this but the table needs to be placed upside down to help relieve the weight load and so it can be worked on in clear view.
And great care must be taken. You must really pad the surface under the table top to ensure you do not scratch it.
Use several blankets, then turn the table over on the blankets.
Then you can gently tap the tongue part.
I do not mean tap the edge of this tongue and groove assembly but on the end of the tongue.
And don't use a metal hammer directly on the tongue.
Use a wood block of some kind and gently hit that with the hammer.
I have a hardwood dowel I use for this.
Just gentle taps and you will see it will come open.
Its just stuck really.
Some wax applied after this often can help keep the track smooth.
I just use a block of regular canning wax but I don't do this often.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen
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Eileen Cronk
Expertise
I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.
Experience
I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.
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