Bushing cross reference?

[ramaroodle]

I have the app and lists but I am wondering if there is a published cross-reference of which kits use the same bushings (if that makes sense). In other words, now that I have amassed over 20 bushing sets I am wondering if there is a list of pen kits that all take the same size bushing. If I have a Sierra set, what other pens can I make with that set?

[StanBrown]

Good question. I am wondering the same thing myself. I just discovered, for example, that the Euro/Summit bushings also work with the Summit Letter Opener. What else is out there?

Originally Posted by ramaroodle

I have the app and lists but I am wondering if there is a published cross-reference of which kits use the same bushings (if that makes sense). In other words, now that I have amassed over 20 bushing sets I am wondering if there is a list of pen kits that all take the same size bushing. If I have a Sierra set, what other pens can I make with that set?

[Kenny Durrant]

I'm still learning as well. You mentioned the Sierra. I use the same bushings for the Sierra, Gatsby and Wallstreet 2. I use the same bushings for the Triton, Jr.Gent 2 and the Kojent. I've noticed that a lot of the cigar kits will use the same bushings. The way I found these out was that I would buy bushings for the kit I was buying and then check to see if they were the same when I had them in hand at home. Now keep in mind that just because the bushings are the same the tube length may not be. The Kojent and Jr.Gent 2 have the same tubes and although the Triton uses the same diameter tubes and the cap is the same length but the pen tube is shorter. The Wallstreet 2 click and twist are the same except the click has a longer tube. So as stated before always check all measurements before swapping tools and parts.

[TattooedTurner]

I’ve wondered this myself. BTW says what pen kits a set of bushings works with, so I just write that on the baggie. Seeing as how I have a set of Triton bushings right next to me, I know they also work with the Atrax. I know a lot of the Jr kits use the same bushings as well. A compiled list would definitely be nice, although I’ve pretty much narrowed myself down to a handful or so of kits that I stick to for the most part.

[magpens]

I have been making pens for nearly 10 years and I know of no such list for bushings.

I have quite a sizeable collection of bushings and found it challenging to keep them organized and accessible.

Fairly recently I moved away from using bushings. . I measure the pen components with a digital caliper and then frequently check the size of my turning with the caliper. . When I am close to final size (but still oversize) I stop turning and sand down to the required size, taking into account the finish that I will be applying. . For a CA finish, I sand about 0.002" below the required size.

[JimB]

If you have the app there is a way but it isn’t perfect. If you enter all the bushing diameters that are listed for a pen in the search function it will return a list of all the pens with those numbers listed. When entering the numbers in the search separate them by a space not a comma. It isn’t a perfect system but it does work.

[KLJ]

I do not know of a list like that either. As to keeping them organized and accessible I keep mine in the clear plastic fishing tackle boxes with the removable dividers. I write on top of the lid with a permanent marker what kit it fits, it is divided in 2x2 in squares, works great i just hope i never drop that box !!

[gtriever]

Nope, no list known here either. For storage I use the little storage cases from Harbor Freight, p/n 90243 - 24 small boxes inside a larger box. Each individual box is labeled with the bushings number and which kit, and the cases are labeled by the main Pen Supplier - PSI, Berea, or Misc / Project Bushings.

[KLJ]

Thanks for the tip on your Harbor Freight box, that would help in case or when my box gets spilled, I have made it three years but often look at it and think if i ever drop that I have no chance of figuring out what went where.

[TonyL]

I use a Dremel engraver to write the measurements and sometimes the kit that they are compatible with on the bushings. I keep the in very small plastic bags and hung from a shelf. Having said that, I still have a dozen or so strays, but at least they have the measurements and kit names on them. FWIW. I know this doesn't help with the cross referencing request. Sorry.