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

[Alan Grassia]

Hello Andre, Dan, and Newton Friends,

Based on the tools and parts that I had on hand, plus knowing my skill set, I was able to complete Option #2 without too much trouble.  If I pick up a second eMate 300 on the cheap I may attempt the spring rebuild/replacement Option #3.

Just take your time, Andre, don't over think it, and you should be fine.

Cheers,
Alan Grassia
 
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MessagePad 2000, MessagePad 2100, eMate 300
 
Website: http://blog.smartphonefanatics.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/alanmgrassia
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alangrassia
 


On 5/10/21, 9:56 AM, "NewtonTalk on behalf of DXH" <newtontalk-bounces at newtontalk.net on behalf of dxh at woh.rr.com> wrote:

    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
    > ----------------------------------------------------------------------
    > 
    > http://newtontalk.net
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