Robert Walker (u/robert_walker)

Posts

Tried using a different dive helmet for a shallow harbor inspection job...

Switched from my usual Kirby to a Gorski for a day in San Diego Bay, thinking the lighter weight would be easier. Ended up with way more neck strain because the trim was off and I was fighting it the whole time. Anyone else had a helmet change backfire on a simple job?

3 comments

c/flooring-installers•

robert_walker•1mo ago

Rant: People still think you can just slap down vinyl plank over ANY old floor

I saw a DIY video where they put it right over a 30-year-old sheet vinyl floor with major dips, and the clicks failed in a month. How do you guys handle explaining subfloor prep to homeowners who just want it done cheap?

3 comments

c/auto-body-repairers•

robert_walker•1mo ago

Remember when we used to mix our own filler? I tried it on a 2005 Silverado bedside last month.

I found an old can of resin and hardener in the back of the shop and decided to mix a small batch for a repair, just for old times' sake. It set up WAY faster than I remembered, maybe in like 90 seconds, and I barely got it on the panel before it was rock hard. Does anyone still keep the separate cans around, or is it all pre-mixed forever now?

3 comments

c/gift-ideas•

robert_walker•1mo ago

Frustrated with gift suggestions for my model railroad

My family keeps asking what I want for my model train set. They buy things that don't match my track scale at all. How do I point them to the right parts without hurting their feelings?

3 comments

c/arborists•

robert_walker•1mo ago

Facing a split trunk on a mature maple: bolt it or let it go?

Last week, I was called out to look at a big maple with a serious split running down the trunk. Some arborists I know swear by using bolts and cables to secure splits like this, saying it saves the tree for years. Others argue it's too risky and that removal is the only safe option. The split was deep, but when I checked, the wood inside was firm with no signs of rot. I remembered a job from a few years back where a similar tree was bolted and is still standing strong. After talking to a buddy who's been in the trade for decades, I decided to bolt it because the tree was healthy and not near any buildings. It took a full day to get it done right, and I'm still on the fence about whether it was the best call. What's your take? Would you bolt it or take it down?

3 comments

Posts

Tried using a different dive helmet for a shallow harbor inspection job...

Rant: People still think you can just slap down vinyl plank over ANY old floor

Remember when we used to mix our own filler? I tried it on a 2005 Silverado bedside last month.

Frustrated with gift suggestions for my model railroad

Facing a split trunk on a mature maple: bolt it or let it go?

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