Parts for broken C clamps

[Jim Mackell]

I found a batch of C clamps in various sizes that are in fairly good shape except for the pad at the end of the threaded rod. They have fallen off or been knocked off by rough use.

Anyone know of a source for replacements? I assume that the pad would go on the threaded rod until it locks into place.

Thanks!

[harry strasil]

I made my own C clamps in the Blacksmith shop this is part of a Blueprint I did on making them for a blacksmithing site and how to replace swivel pads that had worn out and fallen off

Part E is the swivel foot for the screw. select a piece of scrap round shafting and chuck in the lathe and drill a hole that the ball end of part C will fit into. Using the actual ball end make it deep enough that the shoulder on the ball is about 1/16 down inside . Turn a taper to corresponde with the drawing leaving a 1/8 sidewall to the hole. Turn the top 1/8 or so to 1/16 wall thickness.

After the clamp parts are all assembled, put the swivel pad on and tighten the screw down tight with the swivel against something solid and using a short piece of flat or a dull chisel crimp two sides of the thin top in against the shoulder above the ball. ONLY IN TWO PLACES, THAT WAY WHEN THOSE DIMPLES WEAR OFF YOU HAVE METAL TO DO IT AGAIN SEVERAL TIMES.

Note- This method can also be used to replace swivel pads that have become worn out or lost on factory C Clamps.

[Kevin Groenke]

http://www.mcmaster.com/ctlg/DisplCtlgPage.aspx?ReqTyp=CATALOG&CtlgPgNbr=2543&term=C-Clamp%20Pads&ScreenWidth=1024&McMMainWidth=814&sesnextrep=16151453820961

If that link doesn't work, go to
http://www.mcmaster.com
search for "clamp pad".

-kg

[Jim Mackell]

Thanks! Just what I was looking for.