Double Bass replace just endpin tightening screw?

[mhurwicz]

When the endpin is in, the tightening screw just turns and turns, but never gets tight. When the pin is removed, the screw goes a little farther in and will tighten. I'm guessing the threads are stripped at just the vital place on the screw.

I'd like to replace just the screw if possible, which seems like a possible do-it-yourself job, but when I turn it counterclockwise, it gets to a certain point and then sticks tight -- I assume it's designed that way. So not sure what the best way might be to remove the screw.

More info: The endpin is about 1/4" in diameter. I also have a wheel that I've used for years. The bass is an old Epiphone.

Any thoughts/advice would be greatly appreciated.

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[mhurwicz]

Pictures don't seem to be working for me. You can see them here:

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[T-Bird]

Hi.

Welcome to TalkBass mhurwicz.

Looks like the collar might be needing to be replaced as well, it looks to be a bit on the thin side, especially with the missing piece on the end pin sleeve.

Quick and easy job for someone who has an access to a lathe.

Unless Your bass is a cheap ply one, I'd get that delaminating center seam looked at as well.

As for the pics, use the tags on Your pic host to link them onto Your post.

Regards
Sam

 

[RCWilliams]

when a screw gets stripped it damages the threads and can be quite difficult to re start when crossing the stripped area, particularly in the reverse of the direction it was damaged. since it is toast any way, you may7 be able to back it out with the use of pliers or vise grips. the you can chase the threads of the collar with a tap and try a new screw.

 

[Jake deVilliers]

Pictures don't seem to be working for me. You can see them here:

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Mmm. That kind of cheap endpin usually strips out the metal collar. You can repair it by drilling and the hole bigger and re-cutting the threads to suit a larger thumbscrew.

There are some skills involved. Good luck!

 

[SAlcott]

Given the vintage of your endpin and what looks like a stiff wire to the tailpiece, you ought to spring for replacing both; you and your bass will be much happier.

 

[Ed Fuqua]

I had a similar issue recently; from what Mike Weatherly at Dave Gage told me, the wear and tear of the wheel on the cork lining the endpin shaft hole causes it to go out of round and then you start pushing the thumbscrew in more, which just aggravates the "out of roundness". Rather than replacing the whole endpin (about $275 for the one I was looking at), check out the attached photo for the repair he did for around $35...

They tapped two new screwholes, the two pins give a VERY secure grab on two sides. I'm digging it...

 

[mhurwicz]

Thanks, everybody. For now, I have just replaced the thumbscrew, and it seems to be holding the pin and the wheel okay. The collar does not seem to be a problem. However, I agree that more robust improvements would be good, and I will keep that in mind the next time the instrument is "in the shop." Thanks again! Mike

 

[mhurwicz]

By the way, on the plus side: total cost $3.29 plus tax!