TCS Custom Guitar Cutaway Ram Side Bending Machine Demonstration

This video demonstrates how to use the cutaway ram for the TCS Guitar Bending Machine with the cutaway bending forms. Every set of cutaway forms will include a set of cutaway cauls that match the shape of the cutaway to the model of your choice. Please take note on how there are essentially two bends for the cutaway. Do not be concerned if the temperature doesn’t reach the number you inputted. In my opinion, hitting a target temp isn’t the ultimate goal here. What’s important is to not scorch the wood. If you hear and see plenty of steam, you’re in a good spot. The wood is receiving the heat released from the steam generated. This heat transfer aids in the bend tremendously. If you don’t see any steam, you may run the risk of scorching the wood. With enough experience, and yes, even mistakes, you’ll find a temperature range and technique you feel comfortable with. So take it easy. The first bend must be done with a lot of attention. The "feeling" of the bend will give you a lot of information of how to proceed. Go back and forth, or up and down and let the wood's resistance give you feedback on how much more you can press and proceed with the first bend of the cutaway. On the second bend, it's almost all down hill from there. You'll notice you cannot make any more progress on the first curve of the cutaway, at which point, the second bend takes place by pressing the caul all the way into the cutaway slowly, but with consistent feeling and closing at the same time. Don’t press in quickly, remember “feel” the bend. Pay attention to any unwanted sounds like cracking. Don't worry too much about the temperature so long as you can tell that you have already made progress in the bend, and that the wood is steaming off the water you applied. Continue the clamping process until you cannot bend it any further. Do not over clamp or you may risk damaging the bender. Finish the bend, turn off the machine, and allow the piece to cool down thoroughly before handling.