Benjamin Benjamin Model 342 Restore

[shawnw881]

I recently got my hands on a Benjamin Franklin Model 342 that is overall good condition. It was not working but I tried the “alcohol treatment” and not it’s holding air overnight without any leak down, as beat I can tell.

I’m ready to start cleaning it up, but have some questions about cleaning the outside of the barrel. The finish is in fairly good condition and I don’t want to harm it by cleaning with the wrong material. There is a small amount of tarnish and just some dirt and grime that need removing. Can anyone recommend a cleaner or oil that may help with this.

Also the stock was apparently cut down and later glued back together, I I will be looking to replace it. I’ll attach a few pictures.

Thanks in advance for any help along the way/ Shawn

 

[Bear-of-Grayling]

Take the action out of the stock. Spray WD40 in a soft cotton rag and coat the action. Keep applying until the old varnish/crud is removed. Do NOT rub the action very hard. Let the WD40 do it’s work. Maybe overnight. When it looks clean gently wipe the action dry. It should be a nice consistent satin black finish. The stock is another project.

 

[.20calguy]

Personally I would retain the original stock. I would repair the joint so the seam is invisible to the touch and not worry about seeing it. it will look good with a nice finish over it. If its noticed say yeah, some folks mark door frames when their kids are growing up.

 

[beerthief]

Hmmm ? maybe that cut stock is a secret hiding place for gold doubloon's ? I would keep it as original as possible . just get it working right and enjoy .

 

[.20calguy]

Hmmm ? maybe that cut stock is a secret hiding place for gold doubloon's ? I would keep it as original as possible . just get it working right and enjoy .

Its a really nice piece of wood, and has some nice character.