[Heathkit] removing LMO knob on SB series radio

[Bill Cromwell]

Hi Gerry,

You'll have the best luck using short piece of steel tubing with a 
slightly larger inside diameter then the width (thickness) of the allen 
wrench (aka hex key). It need not be a 'close fit'. Be careful with it 
since the pipe extension is a force multiplier and you don't want to 
ruin the socket in the screw. You might try some penetrating oil (not 
WD40) in the screw threads (maybe overnight) or apply some heat to the 
screw. You can apply heats with a soldering gun on the free end of your 
allen wrench and the heat will conduct down the wrench to the screw. Be 
careful to not heat any nearby plastic parts.

Many hex key sets sold at automotive store include the "extension 
handle" and they might even be sold separately. Any sturdy steel tubing 
will suffice, though, even it isn't labelled as such.

73,

Bill  KU8H


On 04/03/2015 04:09 PM, Gerry Steffens wrote:
> OK.  So somebody took a pipe wrench to the hex wrench when they assembled
> this equipment.  They tightened the LMO knob so as to hold off a herd of
> charging elephants!  Or, is this the result of flowing aluminum coupled with
> corrosion?  Everything appears clean & shiny.
>
> Now, I want to take the LMO knob off.  I have the appropriate hex wrench.
> To get down in to the set screw I must put the long end down into the knob.
> My fingers can't turn the wrench without filleting my fingers.
>
> Is there a secret to undo this without wrecking things?  Dare I use a pliers
> or other tool on the wrench?
>
> Any suggestions would be most appreciated.
>
> TIA
>
> Gerry
>
>