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General => General Technical Chat => Topic started by: Circlotron on October 12, 2017, 04:11:07 am

Title: Tool for tightening p/b switch retaining ring.
Post by: Circlotron on October 12, 2017, 04:11:07 am

I often use these pushbutton switches. The retaining ring has a pair of notches cut in it for some kind of tool to engage in. Does anyone know what this tool is or where I could get one?

http://au.rs-online.com/web/p/push-button-switches/2806361/?sra=pstk (http://au.rs-online.com/web/p/push-button-switches/2806361/?sra=pstk)

Title: Re: Tool for tightening p/b switch retaining ring.
Post by: Brumby on October 12, 2017, 04:42:44 am

I would start looking under "pin spanner".

There are literally dozens of variations on these - but the approach you need for this style would be something like this:
(https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/tool-for-tightening-pb-switch-retaining-ring/?action=dlattach;attach=359973;image)

Alternatively, a split blade screwdriver-like tool with a deep, wide slot and a right angle bend.


I expect somebody would make the purpose built tool - but I don't know where to find it.

Title: Re: Tool for tightening p/b switch retaining ring.
Post by: Benta on October 12, 2017, 11:28:35 am

Yep, pin spanner or pin wrench, depending on your location.

Title: Re: Tool for tightening p/b switch retaining ring.
Post by: Ian.M on October 12, 2017, 11:41:33 am

Make your own box spanner for them - take a steel tube that's a close fit over the nut, cut two tabs, fold them in, file to fit then grind off the excess tube length leaving the tabs close enough to the end to fit the nut properly if tightening it against a panel.  Smooth the edges and end so it doesn't mar the panel.  Then drill the other end for a tommy bar, insert one and upset its ends so it is permanently retained.