Locking screws that prevent damage to shafts.

[thehomeengineer]

Hi All

I hate grub screws or bolts as a clamping method on shafts where adjustments are constantly needed to be made, and I am always hunting for the Allan key or spanner. Another issue is the damage they can do to the shaft. Yes, you can machine a flat along the length of the shaft or place a slug of soft material between the shaft and clamp screw but you still need to find that Allen key or spanner

Anyway rant over!

To over come this I always (when ever possible) fit knobs or handled levers. This overcomes the Allen key and spanner issue.

The Knobs and levers I purchase are female thread so I can make my own length threads. I have a stock of metric threads from 5mm to 12mm with various diameter handle sizes. These are cheap so buy in bags of 10. The lever type are more expensive so I tend to buy these as I need them.

To over come the damage caused to the shaft I simply drill a hole in the end of the stud and loctite a brass insert. This then prevents damage to the shaft and the need to machine a flat along the shaft.

Hopefully the photos below will make it clear.

Components and materials to make locking handles

Stud made from M6 bolt and drilled to accept brass.

Both the stud and brass loctite in position.

Brass slug then cut to length

Lever and knob ready to use.

Knob used on stop for 4x6 bandsaw

Not only are these practical I also think these give a nice finish to any job.

Thank you for viewing.
The Home Engineer