Rubber Bumpers on your Running Pliers
I don't know if I am imagining it or not, but does it seem like the little rubber/plasticy tips on your running pliers don't last as long as they used to?
Lately, it seems, every I pick up a pair of running pliers, the tips are falling off or other varing degrees of breakdown and needs replacing. As a retailer of supples, they seem to be one of those overlooked products for many reasons. They are tiny, transparent, and not very exciting to inventory! When I do remember to order them, they often come in too big or too small for fit the pliers in need.
I have come up with a solution that will fit all brands of steel running pliers. Plasti Dip! It is a rubber paint!
The idea came from other tools in my tool box that have a rubberized handles, pliers in particular. I wondered where the rubber coating came from and started digging around on-line for a rubber dip or paint. I found this plastic dip but only in the states...so, I ordered a can and gave it a try.
Prior to starting with the dip, I read the instructions! Then I figured it would be wise to first remove the worn out running plier tips and clean the surface with denatured alcohol to remove any greasy residue. I found an old vase that would hold my running pliers up in the air so the dip could dry unabstructed. Last but not least, I figured out how to use my clock on my mobile phone as a timer...that was cool, and a new trick for me!...I don't know half the stuff my phone can do!
I took the plunge, litterally! I dipped the pliers and set them in the vase for 30 minutes. I went about my work and when the timer went off, I dipped them again. I dipped the pliers a total of 4 times. I let them dry for 24 hours before I tried them out on glass. They worked great!
It is handy to put a little mark on the top to help you find the right side up for running the score. I drew it on with a sharpie marker.
If you want to do this yourself you can. It is listed in the online catalogue from Home Depot in the US and it is probably available "to go" at some store locations. I ordered mine through Amazon Canada. It was sent from the states and took about 2 weeks...an eternity for those of us who like instant gratification! Shipping was free (not Prime).
I happen to have lots of dip left in my can, I would be happy to dip your running pliers for $6/pair and you can potentially pick them up the next day!
Hmm...I might tackle the hand grips on my wheeled nippers next. For some reason those begin to slide off once I get into the groove of nipping up some cullet!