Sticking Threads

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

In my imaging journey one thing I have tried to do is setup my gear as far as possible with all threaded connections. Don't want expensive heavy cameras hanging off a couple of finger tightened thumbscrews, especially with changing temperatures!!
The disadvantage is that now and then you end up with a small extension adapter or similar part which cannot be unthreaded. And it is so narrow that I cannot get a grip on it. Does anyone have any hints about how to loosen this sort of thing?

Malcolm

[multiweb (Marc)]

Originally Posted by barx1963

In my imaging journey one thing I have tried to do is setup my gear as far as possible with all threaded connections. Don't want expensive heavy cameras hanging off a couple of finger tightened thumbscrews, especially with changing temperatures!!
The disadvantage is that now and then you end up with a small extension adapter or similar part which cannot be unthreaded. And it is so narrow that I cannot get a grip on it. Does anyone have any hints about how to loosen this sort of thing?

Malcolm

If it's too small to get a grip, thread a bigger one on it then tape them with electrical tape and unscrew them both. With fine threads (spacers, filters) I use a HB pencil and run the graphite on the threads. It lubricates them and stops seizing.

[Chris85 (Chris)]

What I use is a cheap pair of rubber coated gloves to give yourself all the grip you need. Sometimes I just place my palm over the offending part and just twist my wrist and that's usually all it takes. I got mine from Bunnings for around $5 if I remember correctly

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Thanks Marc and Chris. The tape idea worked for one of my issues. Will keep working on the other!! I had thought of the pencil idea, but was reluctant to introduce any possible source of contaminant into my imaging train.

cheers

Malcolm

[Merlin66 (Ken)]

Here's a failsafe and easy way to ensure it never happens again...
Give the threads a light wipe of boot polish (your choice of colour)
No outgassing, no liquid no heat slump to affect your optics.
Worked well for the past twenty years......

[multiweb (Marc)]

Originally Posted by barx1963

Thanks Marc and Chris. The tape idea worked for one of my issues. Will keep working on the other!! I had thought of the pencil idea, but was reluctant to introduce any possible source of contaminant into my imaging train.

cheers

Malcolm

It's not grease so won't catch dust and gunk. Think of it as dry grease. You won't even know it's there.

[peter_4059 (Peter)]

I spread Bluetack on a table top then press the exposed end of the small adptor into it and rotate.

[ZeroID (Brent)]

Pencil 'lead' is graphite, one of the best dry lubricants there is.

[Visionary (David)]

Originally Posted by Merlin66

Here's a failsafe and easy way to ensure it never happens again...
Give the threads a light wipe of boot polish (your choice of colour)
No outgassing, no liquid no heat slump to affect your optics.
Worked well for the past twenty years......

What a brilliant idea, I have employed it on various threaded connections and it works like a dream.
In addition, I have purchased a selection of greases within the "damping" range of viscosities and thixotropic properties. The objective is to find a damping grease that will simulate the beautiful feel of Baader fittings. The dampened connections aren't intended to mate with Optics, therefore, outgassing shouldn't be an issue.
Obviously, Ebay "stuff" is never going to be of Baader quality but I am quietly confident that I can dramatically enhance the "feel" of Ebay goods.
As this project entails a lot of offshore buying it's going to take considerable time until I can report any findings. Once I have secured some results I will publish those findings on this thread.
Cheers