Irwin Clamps

[Peter45@]

Hi all, This Irwin clamp has stopped working because the serrations on the side of the vertical silver bar have become blunt. It’s a bit disappointing because it’s not had a lot of use. Is there any way of re-sharpening the serrations? I did think of drilling a few holes between the steel bar and the movable bit of the clamp to lock it in , with a locking pin or bolt, but it’s a bit of a Faf. Any other ideas?

 

[Argus]

It's a bit tedious, but you can re-shape the serrations with a hacksaw or thin file. It's best to do both sides.
A couple of light strokes on each...... a bit like sharpening a saw.

The metal is a bit soft compared to more expensive clamps, so it's an easy cut........ but the soft metal contributes to the problem in the first place.

 

[Orraloon]

I have not tried this myself but it looks worth a try.
fix a slipping F clamp - Google Search
Regards
John

 

[D_W]

I'd start with a piece of very coarse sandpaper and scratch the burnished peaks to give them some bite. Like fresh 80 grit paper with a hardwood backer.

 

[Cabinetman]

Just a thought, you’ve always used the same sort of bit of the rod, drill out the rivet and turn it end to end, finding another rivet is going to be the hard part. Ian

 

[Peter45@]

Thanks to all for suggestions. Neat idea re reversing rod, Ian.

 

[johnnyb]

exact same problem on same clamps. I drilled mine and put a 5mm pin in. its made a much better and bit slower clamp. took about 5m per clamp as there very soft.

 

[johnnyb]

ps I measured the usable travel of the screw took some off(1/2 inch)and drilled at that distance.