Lock Tight - help...

[NYMike]

So after getting my watch back from the RSC, I wanted to undo the clasp and put it only my rubber b. Not so fast - They lock tighted the screws. Now, I am stripping them and have no idea how to get it off.

I tried heating a nail and touching to the threaded end of the screw, but to no effect. Any suggestions are appreciated.

[TSW]

Put the flame from a lighter directly to the link.

[handsfull]

Originally Posted by NYMike

....I am stripping them and have no idea how to get it off.

Stop! Go buy a soldering iron at sears and apply the tip to the threaded end. It's a cheap purchase compared to how much the replacement links will be to make your bracelet look right/factory again.

[zeuloa]

You could try using the hair blower on it for a few minutes.

[ludicree]

You should be able to unscrew everything with the right screwdriver and reasonable force.

The loctite used is to secure the thread against accidental move, not lock it down by glue. If you have to heaten it up and destroy the loctite, the wrong type has been used.

I serioulsy doubt the RLX service would do so.

However, heatening it up will work anyway. It is just not necessary.

[handsfull]

Originally Posted by ludicree

However, heatening it up will work anyway. It is just not necessary.

Have to differ with that opinion. It's not only necessary, it's recommended by Loctite.

[Frosty]

Before heating it, I would make sure I had the right size hollow ground screwdriver. Put the bracelet in a device that would solidly hold the bracelet without damaging it. With a very small jewelry hammer, tap on the screwdriver lightly, as you are turning the screwdriver. This should do the trick.

[rmfnla]

The correct screwdriver is essential; heating won't hurt.

A hair dryer should be enough...

[ludicree]

Originally Posted by handsfull

Have to differ with that opinion. It's not only necessary, it's recommended by Loctite.

Only for those types of their product which are not meant to be unscrewed without special procedure again. Those are for security relevant bindings.

But not for those which are only meant to secure against self-unscrewing. What is recommended for a Rolex bracelet.

[TARDIS]

There are different types of Loctite. You should use the low binding Loctite 222.

A few seconds blast with a gas torch may do the trick.

[Lt.Arclight]

Heat will defeat the threadlocker used. But as been previously mentioned, the screwdriver FIT MUST BE PERFECT.

I personally use the soldering iron trick, the screw will conduct the heat and the compound will soften and the screw can easily be removed. But again-don't skimp on the screwdriver.

[handsfull]

Respectfully, I wouldn't use a hammer....your inviting (unnecessary) damage.

The only two tools you need are a professional screwdriver (either hollow ground or professionally filed so that it is NOT a simple flat grind w/taper)......and HEAT. If you encounter resistance with removal, use incremently MORE heat.

[mmmk604]

Originally Posted by handsfull

Respectfully, I wouldn't use a hammer....your inviting (unnecessary) damage.

The only two tools you need are a professional screwdriver (either hollow ground or professionally filed so that it is NOT a simple flat grind w/taper)......and HEAT. If you encounter resistance with removal, use incremently MORE heat.

I would have to agree with him

[NYMike]

Thanks everyone - I suppose I will add more heat. I tried to conduct heat through a nail but it seemed not to get enough that way. I am hesitant to put a gas torch to it, because I don't want to repolish the link to remove the black oxidation which would form.

I'll try the hair dryer and let you know. IF that's not hot enough I might just put the section of band in a frying pan (indirect heat) for a minute.

[Rikki]

Oh you guys are killing me I use a cigar lighter which is like a mini torch 3 seconds screw comes right out. When done clean threads apply locktite and rethread this is not rocket science don't make it harder than it should be. Rikki P.S. the little propane will leave no residue or black or anything for that matter to clean off it's a clean flame.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Rikki

Oh you guys are killing me I use a cigar lighter which is like a mini torch 3 seconds screw comes right out. When done clean threads apply locktite and rethread this is not rocket science don't make it harder than it should be. Rikki P.S. the little propane will leave no residue or black or anything for that matter to clean off it's a clean flame.

Have to agree Rikki it amazes me that today common sense is sometimes lacking. Its not rocket science and a direct flame from a gas lighter or similar will not harm one of the toughest materials on the planet S.steel

[NYMike]

Originally Posted by padi56

Have to agree Rikki it amazes me that today common sense is sometimes lacking. Its not rocket science and a direct flame from a gas lighter or similar will not harm one of the toughest materials on the planet S.steel

It's not about harming the stainless. It's about the carbon build up, and the need to pickle the metal if it oxidizes. That's annoying if you have to pickle or polish the finish on the link. That said, I tried it. It didn't leave any residue, but one of the 2 screws is still stuck. I'll try again tomorrow.

[handsfull]

If you have chemical's (alcohol or liquid wrench) you could soak the problem link overnight....it wouldn't hurt.

FWIW: A nail is a very poor conductor for heat, buy a cheap soldering iron at Sears (higher wattage)....you'll thank yourself.

[Lt.Arclight]

Common sense..,sometimes its not that common.

[Brushpup]

Originally Posted by NYMike

It's not about harming the stainless. It's about the carbon build up, and the need to pickle the metal if it oxidizes. That's annoying if you have to pickle or polish the finish on the link. That said, I tried it. It didn't leave any residue, but one of the 2 screws is still stuck. I'll try again tomorrow.

I used a plain Bic lighter the first time I did it. Worked like a champ. Any residue left behind will easily be wiped off. Pickle and polish?

[build4boost]

Doesnt a flame heat cause the stainless to change color? I dont know how the 904L reacts.
What do you think about the screw that goes into a blind hole? Should we mess with this one?[IMG][/IMG]

[ludicree]

I recommend an all weather lighter which has an adjustable gas stream instead of a simple yellow flame. Leaves no marks.

Had to get one of those screws out of a blind hole. It is no problem, just heat the end with the thread.

[handsfull]

Originally Posted by build4boost

What do you think about the screw that goes into a blind hole? Should we mess with this one?[IMG][/IMG]

If your asking whether or not loctite should be applied to it....YES, it's one of the more common screws to back out, and it will result in scratching the flip on your clasp if it does.