It is amazing the number of pedestal bases for very high-end vices
there are out there with all manner of epoxy, glue, and general gunk
built up on them. They are usually accompanied by a liberal helping
of feather fluff and dubbing. The later really add something "special"
to the "used look."
Perhaps their owners are trying to show the rest of us just how little
respect they have for their equipment. Or how lazy they are about
cleaning it up after they have finished a session.
Many of these vices run into the hundreds of dollars, and if they have
money to buy the vice to begin with, then they have a right to gunk it
up if they choose to do so.
Many of my friends would refer to me as somewhat anal when it comes to
taking care of my equipment, much of which has been used for years, but
could be sold as new.
Maybe I am anal, but I simply hate to see equipment treated that way.
If you want it to take care of you by doing it's job when called upon
to do so, then take care of it and give it the chance to do so.
You can protect the base of your pedestal vice by simply removing the
shaft from its base, and covering the base with clear plastic wrap.
After you have covered the base, shove the post back into it, through
the plastic wrap which will give way fairly easily, and retighten the
screw.

Now, when you get sloppy with the goo, at least you will be able to
change the plastic wrap and have a base that looks like brand new!
Who knows, someday a Great Grandson may proudly say, "This vice
belonged to my Great Grandfather, but, I don't think he used it
very much!"
If you have any tips or techniques, send them along, most of this
material has been stolen from somebody, might as well steal your ideas
too!~ George E. Emanuel
(Chat Room Host Muddler)
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