Solutions

• Problem: Removing fan blades or other pieces of equipment that are held in place by 1/4-in. squarehead setscrews can be a problem because of limited space. Is there an easy way to loosen these setscrews?

• Solution: Make a compact setscrew removal tool by using a 5/16-in. allen wrench and a 5/16-in. socket with a 1/4-in. drive. They can reach into a small space and quickly loosen the setscrew.

Contributor: Roger Kamps, Technician, Nor-Lake, Inc., Hudson, WI.

• Problem: Sometimes it is necessary to locate a specific spot from one room or floor to another. How can you drill through a wall or floor even when it is up to a foot thick without making a mess?

• Solution: Make a piece of straight wire from a heavy coat hanger and cut to length. Cut one end to a point and chuck the blunt end. Now you can drill a small location hole through a wall or floor.

Contributor: Michael Strong, Maintenance Supervisor 2, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.

• Problem: Many times a small caulking bead is required in a corner. Usually the tip of the cartridge is cut to provide a larger bead. How can a small bead be laid without getting your fingers messy?

• Solution: Put a small amount of caulk in a plastic sandwich bag and zip it shut. Cut off one of the corners to the size of bead required. Squeeze the sandwich bag to lay a small bead without making a mess.

Contributor: Richard Johnson, All Tech Engineering, Brookfield, IL.