- Joined
- Nov 28, 2013
- Messages
- 197
I hope these things can still be found, maybe under some other name. They look like set screws but have a male hex and sharp point on one end and are hardened. You use them to transfer hole centers from something having threaded holes where you want to attach a plate.
The idea is that you screw these into the existing threaded holes with the points maybe .025 proud of the surface, then you locate the plate to be attached to the existing surface where you want it to be and tap it with a hammer. The "helping hands" make little pricks which you then improve with a center-punch and with some care you drill the new holes concentric with the old holes, counter-bore the holes in the new plate and wind up with an assembly that looks like it was born that way. You use a small socket on the holder in which you store the helping hands to unscrew them.
I last saw a set of these things 50 years ago so maybe they aren't made any more.
If the above description of their use isn't clear, just say so, and I'll try harder.
John
The idea is that you screw these into the existing threaded holes with the points maybe .025 proud of the surface, then you locate the plate to be attached to the existing surface where you want it to be and tap it with a hammer. The "helping hands" make little pricks which you then improve with a center-punch and with some care you drill the new holes concentric with the old holes, counter-bore the holes in the new plate and wind up with an assembly that looks like it was born that way. You use a small socket on the holder in which you store the helping hands to unscrew them.
I last saw a set of these things 50 years ago so maybe they aren't made any more.
If the above description of their use isn't clear, just say so, and I'll try harder.
John