[VAC] Re: Stripped threads

[Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, electrical engineer]

McMaster-Carr (www.mcmaster.com) has Helicoil down to 2-56. The 8-32 kit
is $42.88. A 10-32 tap can be had for about $3, probably more at the
hardware store. When tapping in aluminum it is very important to back
the tap up and break off the chip every half turn or no longer than a
turn of the tap else it will pack the tap tight and practically weld it
to the aluminum. More taps are broken in aluminum than in steel.

If you use Loctite be sure and use a weak grade so you can take the
handle off some time for lock repairs. Like grade 222.

To make the handle more secure, install with the set screw and let the
setscrew mark the shaft. Then take the knob off an drill a shallow
dimple for the end of the set screw to rest in. The connection will be
much stronger than just friction from the set screw.

Be sure to carry an allen wrench to fit the new set screw.

There is a self locking set screw available with a nylon patch that
holds it in place. I don't where to get them without buying in quantity.
McMaster-Carr has them in boxes of 100 for about $20.

Gerald J.



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