[SEL] OT Water pump leathers for the piston

[Arnie Fero]

There was an article in GEM a few years back that described a similar process for
making pump leathers.  You could probably find it with a search on their website.

See ya,  Arnie

On Wed, May 13, 2009 11:13 am, Steve W. wrote:
>
> Failing that you can easily make them.
>
> Get a chunk of SMOOTH pipe with the same bore as your pump. (I use PVC
> or copper if possible)
> Now make a wood plug that will fit tightly into the pipe with a layer of
> WET leather around it (use tanned leather with the smooth side IN toward
> the plug, and round the edge of the plug so it doesn't tear the leather.
>
> Now to form the piston you cut a circle out of the leather that is
> larger than the piston you need by 1/2-3/4" SOAK it in warm water for a
> couple hours. Soak the wooden plug a bit as well you don't want it
> acting like a sponge when it hits the leather. Now center the leather
> over the pipe and force the plug into the leather/pipe. Let it set a day
> or two in a warm location to dry and the leather will set in the shape
> of the pipe bore and the nose of the plug.
>
> Once dry the leather will shrink a bit and the plug will as well
> allowing you to remove them from the form. Punch the hole in the middle
> and install.