Bighead Fastener Failure - Removal?

[c7jhc]

I have just noticed that one of the hoops on one of the Bighead Fasteners holding one of the cycle wings in place has failed. The Fasteners are fixed to the cycle wing with HV-350 adhesive. They have been fine for nearly 5 years since I built the car. I am hoping I can fix this after I return from Le Mans (the other 3 Fasteners on the wing look fine and the second hoop on the broken Fastener looks ok).

1. How do I remove the broken Fastener?

2. Where can I source new Fasteners?

[Garth]

Not sure what you would use for removal - if you cannot get a solvent to remove it!? I guess you will just have to do it with a sharp blade.

 

I have struggled to source big heads in small quantities but have found a place that supply in units of 25! I have bought some this week and would gladly let you have a few just to cover my costs if they will suite!

 

Good luck!

 

Garth

 

atlast

[c7jhc]

Hi Garth,

 

If what you have sourced are the standard Bighead Fasteners I will gladly take a few off you - perhaps four so I have spares? I guess you are correct regarding the blade - I was hoping there might be a 'clever' method!! If I let you have my email is that the best way to organize the fasteners?

[c7jhc]

Garth - I have sent you an email.

Decided I will replace the broken fastener before I go to Le Mans.

If I can purchase some fasteners from you this week I can hopefully do the work over the bank holiday weekend.

[andy_h]

What about using a Dremel type tool?

 

 

 

White road legal 2.0 HPC VX race car - Now all shiney and new 😬

[c7jhc]

Dremel - I was thinking along the same lines - and it's 15% off at B&Q today!

[Garth]

The Dremel has been one of the most useful tools i have had during my build - helped me out of a few tight spots! Not to good on soft stuff though tends to clog the heads!

 

Am away so sorry not to have responded earlier - when I get to my desk tomorrow I will respond to your e-mail and make arrangements.

 

Garth

 

atlast

[c7jhc]

Thanks for the email Garth.

Hope you got my reply (the email server was playing up).

Have purchased a Dremel and ordered some new HV-350 adhesive.

Thanks again for your help.

[Ian B]

RiF used to sell them individually here although not sure if they still have them left.

 

---

Ian - Slightly Vider SVelte SuperVeloce model 😬 - Joint AR for North Kent - Area details and calendar here

[Garth]

They do still list them on their web site, but they have a min order charge and a rather heavy postage charge, so you have to spend about £15 ☹️ before you have bought anything!! Ok for the bigger stuff!

 

atlast

[c7jhc]

Hi Garth,

Have you been able to put a few fasteners in the post for me?

[c7jhc]

Garth - just found your mail - thanks.

[c7jhc]

Garth,

Fasteners arrived today and (as they say) your cheque is in the post ❗

Thanks.

[Garth]

Great - good luck witht the repair and enjoy Le Mans

 

atlast

[Dickie Normuss]

I use these guys for my moulding supplies and they do big head fasteners in singles. They're service has always been superb

 

VX HPC - Loud and proud here

Adding power makes you faster on the straights. Subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere

[Garth]

Just my luck ☹️to get this info after I have had to splash out and buy 50 when I only wanted 10 ! If I ever run out I will know where to go!

 

atlast

[The Polisher]

 

I have replaced several of these over the last few years and I find the best way is to cut around the edge of the fastener with a sharp Stanley knife and then slide a sharp scraper under the fastener working the handle from side to side. You ned a good lubricant on the blade to prevent it dragging on the adhesive.

 

Dave H.

Mad about S77ENS

[c7jhc]

Thanks for the tip re the flat blade - worked well - especially when I found I had two fasteners to replace not one! Next stage get the new ones glued on.