Trimming coil sleeves
Do you ever find yourself in need of coil sleeve that is shorter than the one you have in your parts tray?
By Kevin L'Heureux
I used to find that happened all of the time until one day I figured out a way to end the frustration. Before I developed this method I used to measure, get out a coping saw, chuck up the sleeve inside of the vise and hope I did not destroy it. Then, one day I realized that I had the perfect tools sitting right in front of me! A little inginuety and borrowing fit the bill so I grabbed a flipper link and plunger along with my tube cutter and BAM! Quick, easy and a perfect edge every time. I will place links below to find the tools you will need for this job.
Here are the steps that you need to follow to make this difficult process a snap.
Here are the steps that you need to follow to make this difficult process a snap.
Tools required-
#1. A tube cutter
#2. Flipper plunger with or w/o link though I find it easier to handle with the link
#3. Your new coil sleeve along with the old sleeve used for measuring the length
#1. A tube cutter
#2. Flipper plunger with or w/o link though I find it easier to handle with the link
#3. Your new coil sleeve along with the old sleeve used for measuring the length
Take your old sleeve and measure it against your new one, taking into consideration the bell length as well. You may want to trim the bell first if necessary. *Notice the bell (short end) length difference in this photo.
Next, take a pencil and make a mark on the new sleeve where it is to be trimmed.
Next, take a pencil and make a mark on the new sleeve where it is to be trimmed.
Insert the sleeve and flipper shaft into the tube cutter and align the mark on the blade of the tube cutter then gently cinch it down.
Slowy, adding gradual pressure with the blade, rotate the sleeve to score it and then proceed to tighten and turn further until the sleeve is severed.
Be careful not to go to tight or to quickly or the sleeve will "walk" and you will not get a straight cut.
Slowy, adding gradual pressure with the blade, rotate the sleeve to score it and then proceed to tighten and turn further until the sleeve is severed.
Be careful not to go to tight or to quickly or the sleeve will "walk" and you will not get a straight cut.
After a few turns the sleeve should separate into two pieces and the hard part is done!
Next you can take your finger nail and score off the fibers from the edge of the sleeve and then it is ready for use.
Next you can take your finger nail and score off the fibers from the edge of the sleeve and then it is ready for use.
I often times buy an extra amount of the long sleeves for my kit so that if I need it I have it but I always know that if I need a short sleeve in a pinch it's easy to make one.
Now go cut some sleeves!
You may already have this stuff lying around but if you don't please visit your favorite pinball supplier or
you can purchase the items listed in this article directly below.
you can purchase the items listed in this article directly below.
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