Bracelet link removal

[jjbodean1970]

Hi all,

I just got a 116713 and need to remove a link for proper fit. I have a set of tiny screwdrivers but was unable to get the screw started, and it began to bugger up the screw, so i stopped. took it to a local jeweler today which has a watchmaker i have used for pin replacements and asked him to remove the link for me. he couldnt get the screw to budge, either.

what are my options aside from sending it to the RSC for a simple link removal?

all suggestions appreciated, thanks,

jeff

[Tools]

Well, gee....there are 4 other links to try.....

They should not be very tight, but they will be loctited in place and heat (such as a hairdryer) is the release agent for loctite......... (it takes a 1.6mm screwdriver)

A good watchmaker will have the correct tool for stubborn screws..... If the one you tried doesn't have the tool, perhaps he isn't quite good enough...

[Arrgo]

A very large hammer and cold chisel should do the trick

Actually you might want to try a little heat to loosen the Loc-tite before trying agin with a correctly fitting screwdriver. A heat gun on low should do the trick, but for heavens sake don't over do it on the heat, you may want to wrap the rest of the band and watch in a damp towel. Of course if the threads on the pin or in the link are striped or galled you're going to be in a world of hurt.

Good luck

[Arrgo]

Originally Posted by Tools

Well, gee....there are 4 other links to try.....

They should not be very tight, but they will be loctited in place and heat (such as a hairdryer) is the release agent for loctite......... (it takes a 1.6mm screwdriver)

A good watchmaker will have the correct tool for stubborn screws..... If the one you tried doesn't have the tool, perhaps he isn't quite good enough...

You beat me to the heat thing. I guess my typing is just too slow

[Balboa]

Try applying heat from a hair dryer to the link and screw. It will soften the loc-tite if that is the problem.

Mark

[jjbodean1970]

thanks, i will give the heat a try

[jjbodean1970]

heat worked great, thanks for the tips.

when reinstalling the screw, should i use some additional loc-tite or another thread sealant, or dont worry about it?

[Tools]

Originally Posted by jjbodean1970

heat worked great, thanks for the tips.

when reinstalling the screw, should i use some additional loc-tite or another thread sealant, or dont worry about it?

If you don't have the correct grade of thread locker (such as loctite 221), it is best to not use any at all.. If it's the wrong grade you could find yourself having to drill out the stud and rethreading.... or tossing the link...

[Wildwing]

Try tapping the screw just a little bit with a small hammer before unscrewing. Should slightly break the Loctite bond just enough to turn the screw easier.

[moviefreak]

I always learn something new.. Good to know..

[jjbodean1970]

Originally Posted by Tools

If you don't have the correct grade of thread locker (such as loctite 221), it is best to not use any at all.. If it's the wrong grade you could find yourself having to drill out the stud and rethreading.... or tossing the link...

thanks larry, i think i will use none since the only thread sealant i have i just used to install the drain on a clawfoot tub. best not to use that on the rolex i think...

[Arrgo]

Glad to hear it worked for you

[Andad]

Originally Posted by Wildwing

Try tapping the screw just a little bit with a small hammer before unscrewing. Should slightly break the Loctite bond just enough to turn the screw easier.

Wot - no smiles? or a

IMO, there is not a snowballs that tapping that little screw with a small hammer will do anything but stuff it completely.

Please DO NOT DO THAT.