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MG MGA - Turn switch stripped threads

Has anyone found a good way to restore stripped threads on the Bakelite of the turn signal switch? I have a good functioning switch but the threads for the knurled nut to fasten it to the dash will not grab well as the threads are worn. I have had no luck at all with J-B Weld, that was suggested to me.

Their must be a good way to repair this.
C.R. Tyrell

I just used thread lock from Loctite, and it has held for years
5^71:0:4

I had exactly this. I eventually finished up getting a new switch, but I got a few extra years by fitting a 1/8" thick washer between the switch body and the dash. This moved the switch back so that the knurled nut worked on the remaining bit of good thread left. Tightening carefully will make it last longer too...
Pete
P N Tipping

I was playing around with the switch trying different methods yesterday. I think I found a method that works. I cut a 1/4" strip of clear acrylic packaging tape and wrapped the thread with one layer. The knurled nut still threaded on and was quite solid. When I try it in the dash I would have to apply the tape after installation through the the opening in the dash.

I just hope that whatever I try will work on a permanent basis.
C.R. Tyrell

Sounds OK. Am not familiar with your acrylic type tape. I tried that idea with some PTFE thread tape but it was too soft and pliable for the job. Hope it works.
Pete
P N Tipping

The acrylic tape , is the tape you seal cartons with. The cheaper tape when looked at on the roll looks yellow and blotchy. The acrylic tape will look absolutely clear. It has a little stretch to it and is slightly thicker. Has better adhesive. It is used all the time in packaging. It is a very common tape. If it doesn't work in the long run, I can remove it and nothing is lost.
C.R. Tyrell

As I say I'm not aware of acrylic tapes. You mention a very clear type of tape - we have a Sellot*pe Magic Tape here. Have just tried this on my old 'stripped' switch and it does look as if this could work. The nut screws on OK without the the tape moving - lets hear how you get on.
Pete
P N Tipping

I made a face plate out of brass sheet, and silver brazed a threaded nut to the plate...Machined the old broken plastic nut off the case. Then used the three screws to hold it together...Lot of work, but what else do you do on a cold Winter's day!
On the next Moss sale, I ordered a new switch....Still have the machined one as a spare.
Edward
Edward Wesson 60MGA

Edward, I can only wish that I had your machining skill.

Pete, I tried the "Magic Tape" as well. It worked as well as the acrylic tape, but I used two layers instead of one and pulled them as tight as I could. Nut threaded on well and remained tight. My only concern is the adhesive on the tape. Not quite as good as the acrylic tape. Will see how it holds up to heat and vibration.
C.R. Tyrell

If the adhesive fails, try the new no-adhesive stretch tape, sold at auto parts stores.(for hose and wire repairs)...It only sticks to itself, but makes a permanent repair....I would think it would work in your situation.
Edward
Edward Wesson 60MGA

Don't worry about the adhesive as once the nut is on and tightened, with the self-locking washer, it won't move. Its just a question of whether the tape can take the shear when the nut is just tight enough. The glue is brilliant some of us aeromodellers use this tape to hinge ailerons - its UV resistant too.
Pete
P N Tipping

This thread was discussed between 04/01/2014 and 06/01/2014

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