Titebond three issues
 

Hey Gang, has anyone ever had an issue with Titebond III not making a strong joint between two different types of wood? I'm building a stick/truse type fuse and am using Titebond III. One of the butt-joints between a piece of spruce and balsa came apart. User error? I've used Titebond II without problems (balsa to balsa though), the model even flew...[8D]

Thanks

RE: Titebond three issues
 

I had a similar problem with a butt joint between two pieces of hardwood. Titebond is not absorbed into the wood fibers of the hardwood. As a result the joint will fail. I identified this problem before covering a Kadet Senior. Even though all joints were reinforced using 1/64" ply gussets I pinned all of these joints with 1/8" dowels.

I won't be butt joining hardwood ticks again. A dado joint makes sense.

HTH,

RE: Titebond three issues
 

when gluing end grain, I always presoak the grain using some thinned down glue, to ensure glue penetration in the join, always maks for a secure and stronger joint

RE: Titebond three issues
 

I understand the end grain technique. With a butt joint that solves half the problem. Got any suggestions on softening up the piece that is presented "side grained"?

RE: Titebond three issues
 

if the timber in question is what we call oily, that is full of resin and sap, we sometimes wipe it with thinners first, or if its a very tight grain well scape it to roughen it up a little, so the glue can get a bit more bite

RE: Titebond three issues
 

Next time I'll rough up the wood first. Cleaning with thinner makes sense as a preventative step as the wood's past is totally unknown.

Thx much.

RE: Titebond three issues
 

its not only the woods past, its also its natural state, I've seen what was supposedly spruce that felt so greasy with natural saps and oils I scrapped it. Basicly if the wood feels a little greasy I will wipe the glued areas well with some thinners before gluing.