Today started out fairly optimistically. All the pieces in the second finishing batch were sanded and ready for topcoating. Though my gun wasn't 100%, it was working and I figured I would get all the finishing done by noon.

Well, figuring and doing can be two different things. This morning was also the coldest in the shop with the temperature starting out below 50 degrees. For some reason I haven't pegged yet, my topcoats weren't flowing out properly. Whether it was the temperature of the air or workpieces, the complete lack of any humidity in the make-up air, the lack of an on-gun regulator, or my PSL mixture was worng, nothing I seemed to do made any difference. By 2:00 PM, I pretty much threw up my hands in frustration and spent the rest of the day working on the gun, scratching my head and doing lots of talking to myself...;)

Fortunately, the stuff I'm working on doesn't have to be delivered until late next week. If curing of the undercoats is the problem, they should be dry by then. I also ordered a new regulator and cup for the gun - a $100 hit in my wallet. At least after I sand off the orange-peeled topcoat, I can start over knowing at least the gun is up to snuff.

Another good thing, I was messing around with the camera and I found it worked OK using the battery and not the AC adapter. I'm thinking the problem is with the adapter and the DC current sent to the camcorder. For anyone who has a camcorder, service is extremely expensive - $175 per hour at the local Sony service center. I think I can find a new adapter for less money than that!

My neighbor has apparently let me off the hook for working with him tomorrow. We'll have pictures with the next installment - I hope!

If you have any questions or comments about Mr. D's Walnut Wall Unit, please post them at the Info Exchange.

Jim Mattson