How to install split jaw rail clamps

[Anonymous]

I just bought split jaw rail clamps............How do you install them?

[AtlasGP9]

I'm assuming you've got the over the rail, not over the rail joiner types.
They're pretty easy, but I blew a few when I first stared installing them. (by the way, does anyone know where to get replacement machine screws for split jaws?)
I found out it works best if you just loosen one screw first, and install the joiner on one piece of track. Back off the screw until you can slip the clamp under the rail. Hold the clamp flat under the rail with your finger-- don't let it get cockeyed as you're re-tightening the screw ( I managed to bend a couple of screws completely out of shape). I found it best to hold the side with the screw head fast to the base of the rail, as I tightened it-- always making sure that the whole unit stays straight. Don't over tighten!!! But don't leave loose. After you've done that on both rail ends of the first piece of track, loosen the other two screws and slip the next piece of track up tight against the first. Repeat the holding and tightening. You'll find that the two pieces of rail may be a little out of alignment, but if you tighten one or the other screw a half turn or so, they'll line up perfectly.


Hugh

[John Busby]

Hi AtlasGP9
Have you tried the manufacturer for replacement machine screws.
sounds like you might need the right sized tap to make sure
the thread is OK as well.
How on earth did you manage to bend the machine screws
they should not be that easy to bend.
regards John

[AtlasGP9]

Hi John:

Can't figure that one out myself. I just wanted to make sure they were tight enough that they wouldn't loosen too quickly from vibration. Next thing I knew, the clamp was twisted, and when I took it off the rail, the screw was bent about 30 degrees.
Haven't had the problem since I figured out how much pressure to apply.
I will contact the manufacturer, They're too expensive to just throw away!

Hugh

[ttrigg]

Hi AtlasGP9;

I too bent a couple of screws. I realized what I did almost as soon as I did it. When putting in the second piece of track I had let a small stone (LARGE sand grain) get under the rail on top of the base of the clamp. That put things so out of alignment that when tightened the screw would bend. Now I make sure I clean out the clamp before using. No problems since.

[Tom The Brat]

They're 6-32 screws. Go down to your favorite hardware store and pick up a few. Our local ACE has some stainless screws that would work just fine.

[Capt Bob Johnson]

Remember to keep the meat of your fingers out of the split when tightening, they can bite! Don't tighten more than instructions say, otherwise the bent screw syndrome!

But

They work just great! I havent had any come loose in 3 years since I changed over to them!

[Tom The Brat]

Ooh! Yea. That smarts!