Kenndey Tool Box question

[billferg]

I am restoring a Kennedy, model 620, machinist tool box. Fortunately, several parts are still available for this early 1950 box from Kennedy. The customer service department has been very helpful. I would like to replace the drawer PULLS but the ones available from the company do not attach in the same manner as the old boxes. The drawer pulls on old boxes were attached with a split rivet arrangement. The new pulls are much different – a square hold in the front of the drawer accommodates a square projection on the pull and the pull is twisted into place.
Has anyone faced this situation? I’m wondering if the back of the new pull could be ground smooth and glued to the front of the box with one of 3M’s miracle glues. What’s your take? Thanks for your response.

 

[jakemac]

It might work for a short while, but not for long. The stresses involved with opening and closing the drawers would break the thin bond created by the glue. In addition, the bond would be with the paint not the metal of the box, so if the paint fails the knob would come off that way as well.

There needs to be some kind of mechanical bond between the drawer and the knob. A screw or a rivet.

 

[zkling]

Take this opportunity to make something better than those tiny drawer pulls. Just keep height in mind if you plan on using the front cover.

 

[Tim37]

http://m.ebay.com/itm/350684897627

You could take these cut them to lenth then drill and tap.

 

[billferg]

Great advice. Thanks so much, I'm going with 3/8 square aluminum bar drill and tap.