Case Hardware Repair Question

[sinfonian]

I know this is not a Tuba question but a musical instrument question in general.

The handle and latches on my daughter's Conn 8D french horn case failed. So for Christmas I ordered her a new handle and new latches as a stocking stuffer. This handel and latches came from Feree's Tools by way of WWBW. There were no screws included. The way I am looking at it I have three ways to attached to the case.

• 1) Purchase some self tapping screws that are not too long and screw into the metal strip (running along the edge that opens) that they current hardware is rivitted to.
  
  2) Purchase some little nuts and bolts and bolt them on to the metal strip.
  
  3) Pop Rivit the new hardware in place.

Does anyone have any advice on these type of case repair?

Thanks

[Steve Inman]

I cannot comment on one option vs. another, but I do have this observation:

The handle of my Eb tuba case has two bolts that screw into the handle from inside the case. These occasionally come loose, risking a handle detachment failure when carrying the instrument. IF you choose a bolt (or nut/bold) approach, be sure to use some Locktite (or a cotter pin if you're really into security).

Cheers,

[SousaSaver]

Are the latches you are replacing draw bolt style latches? A draw bolt latch has the metal hoop attached to a lever that hooks around a metal piece attached to the lid or is this 8D case the kind that has the polished metal square latches?

If it is a draw bolt latch use rivets and washers.

[sinfonian]

Are the latches you are replacing draw bolt style latches? A draw bolt latch has the metal hoop attached to a lever that hooks around a metal piece attached to the lid or is this 8D case the kind that has the polished metal square latches?

I am using the draw bolt style. The original style do not seem to give the positive lock that I would like to see. Pop rivits it is. Will run to Ace today to some rivits. Hopefully their selection will be better that Home Depot.

[Dan Schultz]

Are the latches you are replacing draw bolt style latches? A draw bolt latch has the metal hoop attached to a lever that hooks around a metal piece attached to the lid or is this 8D case the kind that has the polished metal square latches?

I am using the draw bolt style. The original style do not seem to give the positive lock that I would like to see. Pop rivits it is. Will run to Ace today to some rivits. Hopefully their selection will be better that Home Depot.

Ace is the place of your helpful hardware man. Get the steel ones and don't be afraid to buy rivets that might seem to be a bit too long. Don't forget the washers. In fact... on soft materials (like a beat-up case area) I often use a combination of the regular 'pop' rivet washers and larger ones.