Best tool for painted/ coated socket head cap screws

[afo3]

I have about 20 exercise machines (gym strength equipment) that use 3/8 socket head cap screws for the structural elements I need to disassemble and re-assemble. Each machine probably has 8-12 of these that need to come apart.

Problem is the SHCS are black and show scratches easily. What is the best tool or bit set to use for a high volume of cosmetically sensitive SHCS? Appreciate your advice!

 

[Old tool guy]

Whatever bit fits well, and a black sharpie for touchup.

 

[RMERR]

I think any tool is going to scratch/mar the socket paint. I'm fussy about fastener appearance too. An artist brush and black paint can get down into the socket for touching up, I've done it myself many times or try a sharpie as suggested by Old tool guy.

 

[afo3]

But how does the factory install the fasteners without maring the finish?

 

[RMERR]

I haven't tried them, but WERA hex-plus bits are supposed to prevent socket deformation. They might be easier on painted socket screws too?

Hex-Plus

Hex socket screws with rounded out heads are not uncommon. Working on these screws is usually difficult and frustrating. We took a close look at the hexagon form and improved it. Screwdrivers with Hex-Plus have a larger contact surface, and prevent the destruction of the screw head, providing up...

www-de.wera.de

 

[Shiftless]

These would work…

 

[RTM]

These would work…

I think he needs that in an Allen Wrench, if I read his post correctly.

 

[Shiftless]

I think he needs that in an Allen Wrench, if I read his post correctly.

You’re right “socket head…”
I know the difference!

 

[Shiftless]

Buy a foot of this, cut off an inch or so and epoxy it into a junk socket. You now have a non marring hex driver. And plenty of extra stock to make more.

Or just use a standard driver and touch up scratches.

 

[RTM]

Buy a foot of this, cut off an inch or so and epoxy it into a junk socket. You now have a non marring hex driver. And plenty of extra stock to make more.

Or just use a standard driver and touch up scratches.

That's what I was thinking about, but no chance to search.

 

[reclaimer]

Soft jaw wrenches, or Knipex adjustable pliers with the rubber protective caps. Or maybe cover them with a paper towel or cloth and use a larger size socket.

 

[teagueo]

If you want to get crazy and keep the finish perfect, just touch them up with a gun bluing solution. A step up from a Sharpie.

Birchwood Casey Long-Lasting Fast-Drying Super Black Touch-Up Pen for Deep Scratches and Worn Areas, FLAT BLACK, 0.33 OUNCE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JSAE0ZY?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[The Cobbler]

Soft jaw wrenches, or Knipex adjustable pliers with the rubber protective caps. Or maybe cover them with a paper towel or cloth and use a larger size socket.

they are socket cap screws, allen wrenches are being used.

 

[reclaimer]

hex heads? sharpie should be fine! I'm gonna have to get that pen Teagueo posted that's even better

 

[3baygarage]

 

[reclaimer]

I used to work at a hotel where the manager would spray paint the brown leaves on plants green before getting inspected by the hotel regional managers. They would complain about everything.

I suspect the OP with his 20 machines is in a similar position lol. I think with a good fitting hex driver like PB swiss, and some touch up paint, there won't be much to worry about.

 

[pizza]

run a hex bit in an impact on one fastener and see what happens. maybe you won't even see the wear, and you're overthinking it. if you don't like what happens, it's only one fastener to touch up, and you can move to another approach.

 

[5ubtle]

What client would possibly be concerned with assembly marks on the internal hex of Allen head fasteners on exercise equipment. Sounds like OCD x1,000,00. I think that the factory used no special tool.

 

[Tostal]

OP could try using a 'ball-end' type hex key
(idk if there are ball-end socket bits available)

- this should avoid damaging paint at the top surface of the socket head cap screws,
any marking would be midway down the hex hole and might not be visible?

To touch up any chipped paint in the hex hole, I'd suggest using a Q-tip to apply some paint.

Other alternatives might be to fit plastic caps to cover the socket head and any damaged paint
or replace all the removed socket head cap screws with stainless or plated versions (if cost is not a concern).

 

[RTM]

But how does the factory install the fasteners without maring the finish?

have you asked them?

 

[larry_g]

Personally I would stock in a few boxes of whatever fasteners you are using and if one gets damaged/marred on removal just replace it.

On edit, get a good brand like unbrako and you won't have to worry about them being a soft import.

You could also use covers that press into the head, https://www.google.com/search?q=cap...NzQ1MmoxajE1qAIIsAIB&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Leaflessshadetree]

Cut plastic from a plastic bag (the zip lock freezer bags seem to be thicker/tougher than others). Lay it over the screw before inserting the wrench.