How to loosen stuck screw axels???

Irish Flute
1

I’m working on an old piccolo, can’t get some of the screws unscrewed from the posts, I was hoping for some ideas to try from ya’ll? Already ruined one screwdriver! Thanks, John.

2

I assume you’ve already tried a drop of penetrating oil and then let it sit overnight?

I’ve rarely run across this, but have had to drill out the odd screw now and then. If I think of it, I’ll ask around the shop tomorrow and see if anyone has any “tricks” that may help.

Loren

3

Thanks Loren, I did try that. I’m getting some magic screw loosener solvent from Ferree’s, maybe that will do the job. I would be interested in an other ideas from your shop. Thanks, John.

4

Hey John,

The the screw is still stuck, send me a PM, I have a suggestion for you.

Loren

5

Soaking overnight and a good screwdriver did it. Loren, I’d still be interested in your method for future use! Thanks, John.

6

Check your PM’s

7

I recently had the same problem with an old Hawkes and son f flute. I will share witgh you the explanation i was given.

Broken slotted screws have two solutions. The first is to re-file a new slot into the end if possible. This will put a small slot into the pillar but this is not the end of the world.
The other solution (which I used on your F flute) is to use a micro thin jewellers saw to cut through the axle between the pillar and the key at the slotted end. Then you twist the key out of line by turning it on the pillar at the threaded end and remove the key. Then you can get a set of pliers on the axle and remove it and then make a new axle and reassemble.

Hope this helps David

8

Indeed, more good suggestions there from Mr. Quinn.

As a final option before cutting or filing, one can also try heating the offending parts with an alcohol lamp - sometimes a little expansion of the metal around the screw will allow the screw to finally turn.

Loren

9

Some really serious pentrating oil can be purchased from Kano Labs http://www.kanolabs.com. The stuff is called ‘KROIL’ and it is loosen anything. BTW-You can mix this with other oils to make them perform better.

Another penetrating oil that Jet engine mechanics use is Oil of Wintergreen.