[NTLK] eMate 300 Repair Question - Washers vs New Spring?

[DXH]

Hello Andre,

Here are my opinions :

(1) Doing nothing has a very high probability of a disastrous failure.

(2) Adding a flat washer and reforming the springs will mitigate but not totally remove the problem.

(3) Replacing with a continuous spring is best to eliminate the problem.

Now, I think we can all agree that (1) is the least favorable option. Until I demonstrated (3), then (2) was the method (and still is) the option that most people use. When done correctly, there is little chance of cable piercing. Note: the problem is not totally eliminated just reduced to the point of little consequence.  A continuous spring removes even that issue but doing (2) is far better than (1).

Also, in addition to the repair, I have fitted a plastic cover over the hinge between it and the cable as insurance. You could also use a thin piece of shim-stock over the hinge to really protect against cable puncture.

Bottom line: Do the repair rather than not and use a continuous spring if you can but definitely use a spring of some description. (And a flat washer of course).

PCBman

Sent from my iPad

> On May 10, 2021, at 8:09 AM, Andre Garzia <andre at andregarzia.com> wrote:
> 
> Hi Folks,
> 
> I think I’m almost ready to attempt the hinge repair on my eMate. I have all tools I need — except for what is necessary for assembling a new spring — so I have been considering using a washer instead. I have a box of 600 or so steel washers here, and even though I understand that changing the spring is the better option, I wonder if a nice washer wouldn’t just do the trick.
> 
> I’m trying to gauge your opinions on it, have you seen an eMate display cable break even when a repair was made with a washer?
> 
> Kind regards
> Andre
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