Can anyone tell me how a madison table comes apart and what tools are needed. going to pick one up on sat. It is seven hours away so its up to me and friends to dis assemble it. any help would be appreciated
thanks dave
An adjustable wrench for the pocket and frame bolts, large straight screwdriver and possbly phillips if they changed slate screws. If you don't have a spanner wrench for the rail bolts you can use a large pair of needle nose pliers.
You may encounter frozen bolts and may also need channel locks, large pliers and some penetrating oil.
1.loosen all pockets,take off those bolts, you may also have to have a staple puller to get out tacks if they were hacked into the pocket liners.
2. loosen and take off end rails then side rails
3.take off cloth and old staples
4. undo screws from slate to frame but not screws from slate to wood backer, using a drill and bit
5. slates are marked so just take them off.
6. frame is marked with numbers so matching back up later is a snap
If slate holes are filled you will also need a hammer and small chisel or screwdriver to dig them out. You can also start by drilling them lightly. You should have no problems taking this apart. takes no more than 1hr.
You might also want to bring a handtruck to move the slates.
Of course this is for an antique Madison.
A new Madison is about the same but easier. You will need a small socket set also. Pockets are attached to the rails under the rail with a small bolt or screw. Once you have the pockets and rails loose, gently pull the side pockets out a bit and look underneath where they bolted on. Many installers only attach one side of the side pockets to make it easier to put together and align. Carefully lift off one side in unison with your helper. If your not careful you could damage the rails. Undo all pockets from rails after you have taken of the two end sections.
GO slow and you will see how easy it is.
NOTE: always preface the deal and say that if there are any problems with the slate like a crack etc the deal is off.
