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Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Printable Version

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Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Tom Hamilton - 08-18-2014

Hi,

I've got some knobs that fit a 37-670 console that are missing the spring that holds the knob onto the shaft. Does anybody know where I can find some replacement springs?

Thanks a lot, Tom

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Steve Davis - 08-18-2014

I have made them from a piece of old broken bandsaw blade. A spring from an old lawnmower starter would probably work also.

Steve

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - tab10672 - 08-18-2014

Banding metal also works, it is easy to cut with tin snips.

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Tom Hamilton - 08-18-2014

Hi,

Thanks for the quick replies. When you say "banding metal", do you mean the metal bands that are used to secure heavy packages or boxes? I'm going by memory here, but are they about 1/2 inch wide?

Thanks a lot, Tom

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Eliot Ness - 08-18-2014

This tip comes from Mark Oppat (oldradioparts.net):

"Many knobs are found without knob springs. So I came up with a solution.

My secret: Old measuring tape metal. Its easy to cut with scissors and you can add as many layers as works best. The slight arch in the metal works like the old springs."

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - tab10672 - 08-18-2014

Yes, the metal bands used on pallets and crates, it comes in 3/8 and 1/4" also. You could probably find used pieces at any factory or wear house for free.

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - sam - 08-18-2014

Wow great tip will have to try

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Tom Hamilton - 08-19-2014

You all have given me some great ideas. Thanks a lot for sharing.

Tom

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Arran - 08-19-2014

Steel tape measures also have a flat clock type spring on the inside that retracts the measuring tape, I've also heard of those being used as a substitute for knobs springs. The pallet straps were a little less useful I found, they were too thick and the steel was too mild though they could work in some cases.
Regards
Arran

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - tom.seeger - 08-20-2014

I have used the metal from old measuring tapes a few times. In some cases it works nicer than the remaining knobs with original metal springs. If you cut it right it has just the right give to it. And if you make it a bit loose you can add another layer or just a flat piece as a shim. I originally tried thicker/stronger metal and found it more difficult to get right fit/feel.

RE: Where to find springs for 1937 knobs? - Kestas - 08-20-2014

I too tried banding steel... too much spring stiffness. Tape measure segments are just right.