What the F&%@ is with the handle

[Neonkiss]

I have an S+ that the ratchet broke on the handle box.
Easy fix, I just needed to remove the handle and the mech to disassemble it.
When removing the allen cap screw on the handle, it snapped off.  
Removed the handle and inside handle box. Made the required repairs and started to drill out the sheared off bolt.
I can tell you now that the cap screw is Grade 8 material and too hard to drill. even with a cobalt drill bit.
So I grab another machine to remove the handle and that one snaps off also. I can see where it has blue thread lock on the threads.
Why the heck did IGT ues a Grade 8 cap screw and thread lock on the bolts? The taper fit holds it in place anyways... and if they would have used mild steel bolts you could drill them out and re-tap the hole.

I think I need to place a WTB for two handles.  

[stayouttadabunker]

That is rotten, bloody luck Neon...holy moly!
Next thing you'll know, for no reason whatsoever - the belly glass will fall out.
Did a black cat cross your path today?  

A couple of months ago...BOTH my computers hard drive's,
 in the SAME DAY!!...decide to say to me:  "We Quit!" 

[Neonkiss]

Ya, I know
At that point it's  time

[Buzz]

Robert  A good, sharp cobalt drill bit, will drill a grade 8 bolt.  Best to use a drill press but if you don't have one you make do. Drill the broken bolt real slow and keep plenty of oil on the drill tip for cutting and cooling.

[Neonkiss]

Robert  A good, sharp cobalt drill bit, will drill a grade 8 bolt.  Best to use a drill press but if you don't have one you make do. Drill the broken bolt real slow and keep plenty of oil on the drill tip for cutting and cooling.

Thanks Buzz,
Ya, I know. I have had to this many times with automotive stuff. I just don't understand why IGT used Loctite on the threads of a grade 8 bolt to hold on the handle.
At this point it easier and cheaper to just buy another handle. especially since the bolt shears at an angel and it makes it hard to get a true center. The bit tends to walk and move towards the mild steel of the handle.

[cowboygames]

I think I have 2 handles laying around you could have for the shipping

[Jim]

Robert,


send them to me, I'll get them repaired for you.

then you will have some spares.


Jim

[Neonkiss]

OK, I did get one repaired. I'm sure there are many ways but this is what worked for me.
I first used a torch and heated up the end with the broken bolt. This melts and burns off the Loctite that was holding the bolt in the first place.
 I then used a die grinder and made a deep slit dead center across the bottom of the handle. You can then insert a sturdy narrow screwdriver down into the broken stud. With a little wiggle back and forth it should break free. Then use some lightweight oil and it will unscrew.

Pictures to follow.