[ Eli Shahar wrote in 171021 MMD --

> I'm rather worried by the discussion on removing silicone
> suggesting a hot air gun.  While it may work, you must be
> extremely cautious because the heat can easily burn through
> the surrounding wood very quickly.

Mr. Shahar is correct, and perhaps I was too enthusiastic over my
newly-discovered heat gun.  The device will cause wood to char very
quickly, and for all I know it might well ignite it.

I'd also be concerned about dust, either sawdust or the dust of the
ages, both of which would be encountered in instrument restoration.

Having said that, and apologizing in advance for any incinerated
Duo-Arts, I would point out that you can't beat the little heat gun
for soldering largish brass parts or other applications where you'd
otherwise be tempted to use a flame.  But please be careful.

Mark Kinsler -- proud to claim descent from a long line of excellent
woodworkers, except that even a casual inspection of my attempts at
carpentry and furniture construction reveals that the line has gone
extinct.