Welcome to 2006 Harmonicats!
Growing up in a Japanese household, I adopted the cultural tradition of "getting my house in order" in preparation for the New Year. This year is no exception, particularly with the Harpsmith workbench!
For this issue, I will include photos and descriptions of the first of two categories of tools: One, "Must Have" and two, "When the tax refund checks come in!" For your convenience, I included the part numbers for each item that tie back to Micro-Mark, an on-line small tool supplier (800)225-1066 www.micromark.com.
"Must Have" Tools
Wouldn't you know it … the most utilized tools on my workbench are the ones that I fabricated:
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- On top is a piece of brass stock .064 x ½" rounded and smoothed which I use to for reed profiling.
- On the left is a bullet-shaped .002 steel feeler gauge used in my final offset reed adjustments.
- In the middle is a bullet-shaped (Thanks Peter) and knifed-edged brass .015 feeler gauge, which I use as an offset and plinking tool.
- On the right, is a custom made reed wrench for Hohner reeds
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 | This reed removal and rivet peen tool was made by Bill Romel of Custom Crafted Harmonicas (http://home.earthlink.net/~romel/)
I've used it hundreds of times and recommend this tool for anyone interested in replacing damaged reeds, as well as creating altered tuned harmonicas.
Note: small peen hammers are available from MicroMark #81367 |
Whether you are on the road or in your shop, the Lee Oskar Harmonica System Tool Kit has numerous useful tools:
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- Phillips #1 screwdriver
- Reed wrench (Lee Oskar reeds only)
- File
- Broad and narrow chisels
- Versatile reed offset, plinking tool and pick
- Reed support shim
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Hering also has offers an "on the go" tool kit which includes:
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- Phillips screw driver
- Versatile reed offset, plinking tool and pick
- Reed wrench (Hering reeds only)
- Reed support shim
- Chisel
- File
- Soft anvil and peening tools for reed replacement
- Spare reeds and valves
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 | #80775 Wiha from Germany are referred to as the Mercedes-Benz of precision screwdrivers. With its lifetime guarantee, it will be the last set you will have to purchase. Speaking of working on Hohner harmonicas … have you noticed that your Phillips screwdrivers will inevitably strip the heads of the screws (bolts)? This is because Hohner specifies Pozi drivers. Part #262/PZ 1x60 Contact Wiha Quality Tools (Thanks John H!) at 763-295-6591 (www.wihatools.com).
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 | #36134 PVC type cutting boards are terrific for providing protection (kitchen table) yet firm surface. Ideal for harmonica customizing and maintenance. |
 | #82718 Harmonica repairs can often times require microscopic adjustments. Super-sizing your work can make a remarkable difference. |
 | #14145T refers to the 0-80 tap, which is required for the "bolt on" method of reed replacement (threads are cut into the reed plates which accept the 0-80 bolts #70157 photo not shown). The die pictured on the far left is not required |
 | #15126 is a terrific low cost tool for holding the thread making taps. |
#81631 Small bench top drill presses will ensure straight and accurate drilling for cover plates, reed plates and combs. |  |
 | #82727 This set includes the miniature drill bits required for harmonica customizing and repairs |
The Peterson VS-II tuner is the ultimate instrument for precision harmonica tuning. Versatile built in condenser microphone or ¼" input for your bullet mic provides added sound isolation. Available through various music stores and on-line suppliers, like:
www.zzounds.com/item--PETVSII |  |
 | Dremel MiniMite #750 is an excellent light weight rotary tool, that when combined with a diamond tip bit makes for an unbeatable reed tuning tool. Available through most hardware, hobby stores, and of course a zillion on-line suppliers including the Dremel Store. |
#80919 Diamond Coated Micro Burr Set has all the size tips (inserted into the Dremel MiniMite #750) you will need for pre-assembled or disassembled reed tuning methods. |  |
Next issue I will work you tool freaks into a frenzy with my "when the tax refund checks come in" list. Till then, don't forget to schedule fun time, blow your horn and file early!
"Hit it and Quit it"!
Kinya Pollard
The Harpsmith
Special thanks to Barbara, Mrs. Harpsmith for her transcription and editing skills.
