Quote Originally Posted by GWBowman View Post
I wonder if it would help a pipe that the hole in the stem and the hole in the shank don't line up...or if I would ruin a pipe.
Your best bet there would be to go to the hardware store and buy an appropriately sized counter sink bit. You should be able to turn it by hand, do not use a drill. This way the end of the tenon is a funnel and will greatly reduce any turbulence caused by misalignment.