How to Repair the Spring in a Measuring Tape
Measuring tapes work on a spring system to retract the tape into the case. The spring attaches to the center of the case on the inside and to the end of the tape through a hole. Pulling the tape out of the case to measure items places more tension on the spring as it expands so it can extend to a longer length of tape with more force as it contracts. Dropping measuring tapes can jar the spring so that it releases from the tape end and does not retract the tape when the removing the lock. A spring can be repaired by reconnecting to the tape inside, or it may need replacing if it is broken. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Hold the measuring tape in one hand with the screws pointing up and place a small screwdriver on one of the case screws. Turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen and remove it by pulling it straight out. Remove all additional screws in the same manner and set them aside.
-
2
Set the measuring tape on a flat surface and remove the top by carefully pulling it straight up. Set the top aside.
-
-
3
Place a small piece of masking tape across the tape measure from side to side on one side of the case to hold the tape in place.
-
4
Blow out the inside of the tape measure center with compressed air to clean any dirt or debris that may be on the spring.
-
5
Remove the masking tape across the case.
-
6
Pull the measuring tape entirely out of the case. Examine the spring to determine whether it is broken and needs replacing or it is disconnected from the end of the tape.
-
7
Press the lock button on the measuring tape to hold the tape in place.
-
8
Place a new spring in the center of the case and connect the end through the hole in the tape. Reconnect a disconnected spring by connecting the end of the spring through the end of the tape.
-
9
Place a small piece of masking tape over the junction of the spring and tape end to hold it in place.
-
10
Grasp the measuring tape just beyond the case with one hand. Hold the case on the surface with the other hand and release the tape lock button. Let the tape retract into the case slowly by applying slight pressure to the tape as it enters the case.
-
11
Place the case lid on top of the case. Replace the screws and tighten each one in a clockwise direction.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Some measuring tapes have slotted screws in the case and others have Phillips screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver for each measuring tape. Most measuring tape cases contain two screws to hold each side together.
Placing masking tape across the top of the tape measure case will hold any length of the tape in place so it does not unwind and pop out of the case.
Masking tape over the junction of the spring and tape end will help secure it in place so it does not disconnect.
Dropping a measuring tape repeatedly can allow the screws in the case to loosen and let dirt enter the case, disturbing the spring on the tape end.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit tape measure image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
