Many who post on this forum also post on the Woodnet forum so what I am about to post will not be new to you. I thought this might be of interest to some of those who don't post on that forum. There is a guy whose screen name is"Rarebear" that refurbishes planes and does a fantastic job. I bought a Stanley 5C on ebay for $12.50 that was in dire need of some TLC. I sent it to him and for $30 he performed his magic. He completely stripped what little Japanning was on it and re-Japanned (is there such a word) it, flattened the sole, polished every metal part including screws, etc., sharpened the blade, and refinished the tote and front knob. I don't have a before picture but believe me when I say it wasn't very pretty or functional. Here is the result of Rarebear's efforts: My photos don't do justice to his work.
