Dr. Grabow Pipes

mysigp226 · Duke Joined: 26 Dec 2008 Posts: 4

Hey everyone. I found the forum while doing research on a pipe my grandfather left me. I've had it for about 10 years and know nothing about it or anything about pipe smoking. But I remember my grandfather smoking it.

I was hoping you all could help me identify it. And then also, what would be needed to put it back into service? Does it need to be heavily cleaned/repaired? Can I simply wipe it down and start learning?

There are no other markings I an find other than what is listed/shown below.

Click on an image to see a SUPER high-res version.

Starfire
Dr. Grabow

Imported Briar
Ajustomatic
Pat. 2461905

drbridges · Posted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 2:08 pm Post subject:

Goodmorning, mysig. You have a DG Starfire. I don't access to my DG shapes catalog so I cannot tell you the specific DG shape number. In case you don't know that looks like a medium straight apple shape.

It doesn't appear to need any repair work, but would benefit from some judicious cleaning. I'd use a rotary steel wire disc to clean the metal threads and metal cleaner. They can seize when they are oxidized. The vulcanite stem is oxidized. You can restore it by soaking in a weak bleach solution. Oz can describe how to finish it with fine grit sandpaper and wax.

I would run alcohol soaked pipe cleaners through the stem, and I would make certain the airway from the bowl is clear. If the bowl isn't excessively caked, that's probably all you need to do.

The DG Starfire was introduced by HLT/Sparta in the late 1950s, and continued with minor variations through the 1980s. ted or Doug Allen might be able to give you a more specific time frame if they recognize the stain finish.

The metal cleaner is an insert, and it is removeable, although it may be quite stuck.

steverino · Posted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 3:05 pm Post subject:

Hi Mysig, welcome to DGCF. Since DRB didn't have his shape chart with him, I thought I would look up the shape number for you. If it is a medium apple, it would be a 10. If a large apple, 11. A slim apple is 72.

I'll try to get a picture up from the shape chart so you can see for yourself.

steverino · Posted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 3:35 pm Post subject:

Here you go. Sorry about the glare. Probably should have mentioned that some of the DG pipe models have a shape number stamped on them. I'm assuming your Starfire does not since you didn't list it in the original post. I looked at a couple of mine and they don't either.

ozark southpaw · Posted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 3:58 pm Post subject: cleaning

Welcome Mysig, nice Starfire! You can also use some 4-0 steel wool to clean the cleaner/stinger. If you use a wire wheel make sure it is not a stiff wire. Those used in a Dremel work great,although I prefer the brass wire brushes,less likely to mark the stem if it gets away from you!! That cleaner should be removable-pulls straight out. They can be hard to remove sometimes. Makes cleaning stem much easier when removed.As DRB said,a mild bleach solution will remove the oxidation from the stem.This will leave the stem somewhat rough,depending on the quality of the vulcanite.I wet sand them starting with 400-600 paper and work up to 1200 and then buff with two different compounds, Without a buffer it is hard to get a glassy shine on them although there are polishes that will put a nice shine on them with some elbow grease. Pm me if you have questions I might be able to answer.
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The only thing shorter than my memory is a certain part of my anatomy!

TheDuke · Posted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 6:06 pm Post subject:

Welcome to DGCF!
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I burn the PA fella in the red can!

mysigp226 · Duke Joined: 26 Dec 2008 Posts: 4

Thanks guys!

Ozark...I think I read you offer (or did) cleaning/restoration services. I don't want to screw this up. Are you still offering?

ozark southpaw · Posted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 10:33 pm Post subject:

Yes I am. Will PM you.
_________________
The only thing shorter than my memory is a certain part of my anatomy!

ted · "Old Timer" Joined: 23 Jun 2008 Posts: 1171 Location: NC'

Promise you mysigp.....He'll make it look better than when it left the factory. OS is the best I've ever seen....Welcome to the Forum......ted

mysigp226 · Duke Joined: 26 Dec 2008 Posts: 4

it's on the way to him as soon as I can get to the post office Smile