On Tue, Apr 25, 2017 at 9:03 PM, Systems Glitch via cctalk <cctalk@classiccmp.org> wrote: > I'm sure most of you DEC hackers have replaced a broken DEC handle or put > handles on a protoboard... I finally came across the right tool for the job, > an Indestro tubular rivet set!
When I worked for a place that made Unibus and Qbus boards, we bought bulk metal quad and hex handle assemblies from DEC, no number stamped on them. We used a floor-stand foot-powered Stimpson rivet setter with a lower die that held the rivet and an upper die that set it. I saved the Stimpson machine when the company closed. It's one of these: http://www.grommetmachinery.com/stimpson-479-machine.html They make quick work of setting rivets but overkill for hobby use. We shipped over 1200 Unibus and Qbus boards, so we set well over 10,000 rivets on it. I probably did at least 1,000. > they're 1/8" hollow brass rivets, but that a M3 x 5mm is close enough. You > can buy the M3 rivets online for cheap, I paid $6 USD for 200 rivets, shipped. Good to know. I still have a bag of our old stock, but if I run out... -ethan