Re: [Harp-L] Machine screws

[Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>]

For reeds, you can use 0-80 x 1/8" screws and use your 0-80 tap to thread the reedplates.  If you are careful, you can tap the rivet holes in the soft brass of the plate without enlarging them.  If you want to go by the book, you can use a 3/64 tap drill in the plate before tapping the holes.  No nuts are required for the reeds.  

 The reed is about .014" thick and the plate is about .040" thick so about .071" will protrude from the plate on the side opposite the reed. IF you are not going to replace many reeds, you can use your 0-80 x 1/2 screws and cut off the long .43" protrusion with a Dremel abrasive wheel. 

If you are working on chromatics, you must grind or file off the screw protrusion flush with the other side of the plate so you can glue a valve there.

Vern




On Aug 19, 2012, at 10:01 AM, Larry Sandy wrote:

> I just received my order from Micro Fasteners of a hundred 0-80 x 1/2" stainless steel machine bolts($6.30), nuts($3.35), #56 drill bits( 2@ $1.35)  and tap($7.45).    Now I have to determine which machine bolts I need to replace reeds.  
> 
>  Look out Lockjaws harmonicas, you're going to get modified. 
> 
> 
> Lockjaw Larry
> Breathing Music daily
>