Vice Handle

[u118224]

I bought an old vice a while back for $5 but it doesn't have a handle. I just started using it and have to use a screwdriver for a handle. I don't know the diameter of the handle, but it's a very small vice. Anyway, once I have the measurement, where can I get just a vice handle?

 

[rsanter]

You likely cannot
The way most are made they are not replaceable or serviceable.
You need to measure the hole and then buy the diameter of stock that will fit.
From there you can peen the ends a bit so the handle cannot come out. I have seen people thread the ends and run a nut onto each end so it jams on to hold. Some people will get a nut or sleeve that will just slip on and then cross drill so they can put a roll pin in to hold it...
The better but more effort ways are to machine a interference fit sleeve and then heat it up to expand it, slip it over the end and let cool. It will be there damn near forever.
Another way is similar to the above but you weld on the end or silver solder on the end sleeve

Bob

 

[Catalyze]

Greetings!
If you want to get fancy, then as Bob suggested, get a piece of round steel stock. Thread the ends and put a couple of these ball ends on:
http://www.swmanufacturing.com/part_detail.asp?PROD_ID=212&TYP_ID=20
Just pick the diamter and thread size that you would want to use.
Craig

 

[franzdom]

I sometimes wish I could get a handle on my vice

 

[lilredex]

Here is a woodworking vise that was made with a garage sale screw, that came without a handle. The appropriate rod size was sawed to length and (pipe) collars were pinned on with roll pins. It has been chugging along like that for more than twenty five years.

 

[Outlawmws]

If its real a small one, get a long bolt the right size from a good hardware store, and use the same process that has been used to replace the swivel screw handle on a number of vises here on GJ (Paraphrased):

Get a 10-12” bolt also get a matching Jam nut. Grind the points off the hex of the bolt, string it through the hole in the main screw, and run the jam nut down and jam it into the bottom of the threads of the bolt. Cut off most of the excess bolt. Peen the remainder into the nut flush as you can and file flat. Grind the points off the now captive Jam nut. You have just made a new handle for your vise…

 

[White 99]

How are they put on new? I have looked at some but don't know how they did it.

 

[Dale B]

See my post below ....There was alot of good ideas , including mine using Heim Joint swivel balls....
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=155497&referrerid=30256

 

[Outlawmws]

How are they put on new? I have looked at some but don't know how they did it.

They generally start with one end finished, and forge the other after the handle is inserted into the screw head. Some will have turned down ends and slide a ball or cylinder on and peen the ends, and some will use pressed on balls. Lots of ways to skin that cat...

 

[u118224]

Thanks for the replies, you've all set me on the right path. I appreciate it!