After sanding, most people that use tung oil normally apply it by hand with a rag. It takes quite a while to set fully. I normally do not go as far as the edges, and usually not the rings. I use lacquer exclusively because I can get 3 coats on in 2 days, if the shells are as normally dry as they are. Tung takes too long for my needs, and it is no better or worse, no softer or harder. Brush on lacquer, I use Delf from Lowes, a quart is less than $10.

Don't forget to tape the outsides of all penetrations, and keep your drill handy when beginning the re-assembly process.

The grey interiors are done with paint, as far as I can tell. I got some mineral oil on the insides of a kit once and it took some of the grey off, so if you want to do them, you could. The shells are thick enough to not need any strengthening.

Thanks jonnistix. Always appreciate your help. I actually just sold a 70s, 9 piece Pearl kit this afternoon, so I've got a bit of cash for supplies, but more importantly, I've freed up some space to work. Thinking that I can spread out some shells and work on several at a time. Only hesitation now is the potential odor. Sounds as if the lacquer technique would be a little more user friendly, but I figure, (if I get motivated) that it's probably a good opportunity to compare and contrast the two techniques. Thanks again.