I have recently purchased an auto tanner. The directions say to flesh the hide thoroughly. I am having some trouble removing all of the membrane on the deer neck. How well must they be fleshed for the auto tanner and are there any tricks to removing all of the membrane?
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The auto tanner is a great piece of equipment,but you need a fleshing machine to thin the hide. As far as getting it ready for the tanner get all the red meat and fat off. I also would salt your cape prior to tanning. Hope this helps Gary (<:
I do use an Eager Beaver fleshing machine that I use after the hide has been in the tanner for the first cycle. My main concern is getting enough of the membrane off prior to the first auto tanner cycle.
Flesh the cape on your machine before you put it in the auto tanner. This takes all the membrane off very well and quickly. Good Luck Jack F.
I've been using an autotanner since they came out and never worry about the membrane!
Rough flesh, turn ears, split lips and eyes; throw it in the tanner-
after a couple hours remove, drain, and shave; that will take care of the membrane!
The membrane will not interfere with the tan; but it must be removed before oiling as the oil will not penetrate well if it left on the skin.
Return to the solution for another hour or so, drain, and oil.
Give oil 4 to 6 hours at room temp to absorb; freeze or mount.
Pre-wash dirty capes to keep the solution cleaner; a quick rinse in warm water RIGHT BEFORE THEY GO IN THE TAN will do wonders for your final product!
Do not mix a new solution if is dirty- this results in the hide absorbing to much alum (over tanning); makes the capes very tight, no stretch.
Thanks alot for taking time to help me. I will try this.