Author Topic: Strap locks and strap pins  (Read 1404 times)

David Houck

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Strap locks and strap pins
« on: June 15, 2009, 04:55:56 PM »
In this thread Mica talks about how to best secure a strap lock when replacing a strap pin.  This would also apply when replacing strap locks with strap pins.  The thread contains some good points made by several other members as well.
 
I prefer the method of fill the hole (wood and glue), [let dry]  redrill the pilot hole and install with a standard wood screw and no glue. You might want to take it out later.
 
Also, please don't fall prey to the security of any strapholder, lock or otherwise. You need to check the anchor pin regularly for signs of wood cell compression. If it's even slightly loose, tighten that up! If you wait until it's wobbly, it may strip out completely, and possibly leave you with an Alembic on the floor.
 
Also, if you are a straplock user, do check the connection on the strap regularly as well. Those nuts can back off and cause a similar tragedy.
 
Even if you use lowly pins like I do, it's still prudent to check the anchor for compression.
 
Adding Locktite is fine on the nut [that tightens to the strap] - again, it's best not to just think one can forget about it at that point. Maybe I'm a little crazy, but I would still check the connection at least once a week.