Some time ago someone gave me a box of stuff that had belonged to someone that was no longer around. I understand that the old timer spent his time restoring old British airplanes - mainly wood (Tiger Moth and Chipmunk?). I was the only airplane guy they knew, so rather than toss it out, it came my way.
There were some useful things in there, including a super tubing cutter for the smaller sizes (under 1/2") and turning tools for ferrels, flaring tools etc. Recently I needed some wood screws that were going to be covered with ply forever. I did not know if the moisture in the spruce (6%?) would ultimately corrode steel screws, so I decided to use brass just in case, but where to on a Sunday eve. I remembered seeing some brass wood screws in one of the little drawers in this box of treasures - they were the perfect size. Problem is, they would not do what screws are supposed to do. After a period of total perplexion, I finally realized that they had a left-hand "thread". I turned them backwards and in they went. I was reluctant to bury them under the ply, they may be unique and valuable. I cannot dredge up any logical reason why anyone would make a reverse thread wood screw - maybe to counter harmonic vibrations?? I doubt anyone else has any answers, but worth mentioning. Take care Steve J
