Mortice Gauge Pins

[kirkhutch]

Hi, I figured that I might get some ideas on replacing the pins in my mortice gauge since many of you refurbish tools. The gauge is a Stanley Sweethart No. 77 (pic below). I bought it from a guy that refurbished it except for the pins. I don't know if they are made to twist out, but mine appear to have been rusted inside the brass that they are in. The tenon pin actually broke off already. Does anyone know how to replace these pins?

Thank you,

Kirk Hutchinson
http://thumb18.webshots.net/t/52/452/0/9/79/2209009790087431078YDhvlK_th.jpg

[Bob Smalser]

Delhorst Instruments (moisture meters) makes tempered, tool-steel pins that are better than the originals.

http://delmhorst.com/products_cpins_list.html

The hard part is getting the old pin out. Don't try to drill it out, or the wire-gage drill will bend and slip past the hard steel pin into the soft brass or wood, spoiling the hole.

I'd probably try soaking the part in Kroil overnight and punching the pin out. Perhaps with some mild heat if necessary.

Brownells.com makes inexpensive punch holders with replaceable punch tips in small sizes. Otherwise I'd sacrifice a tool-steel pin to use as a punch held by needlenose pliers or better, a hemostat if you have a medic handy. ;)

[pipefitter]

Broken drill bit shanks of the size pin you need might work. Another option might be one of the smaller tungstens used for TIG torches.