original asbestos washer stuck, need help!

[Darin Crofton]

I have a penn 113h with a steel main gear, the original washer that goes in first is stuck to the main gear, I've soaked it 24 hours in vinegar and then 24 hours in mineral spirits and it still won't come out. Trying to scrape it out is like pulling teeth, any suggestions to help this challenged newbie out???
Thank you in advance!
Darin

[Maxed Out]

Try putting the gear upside down and stick a screwdriver on the edge of the stuck washer and tap with hammer

[Darin Crofton]

Try putting the gear upside down and stick a screwdriver on the edge of the stuck washer and tap with hammer

I've tried that, but it won't work, has before on another one but not this stubborn bas!*#d

[thorhammer]

dremel

[Darin Crofton]

dremel

Aha, didn't think of that, I just got my first one and some tungsten bits, off I go...
Thank you guys for the great suggestions!!!

[foakes]

Be careful with those tungsten bits, Darin — they could chew up the inside of the gear.

If I get a real tough one (had one today) — I use an "L" shaped HD pick from Craftsman.

I set the gear on edge — then insert the point of the pick between the drag and the gear — then just tap it with a small hammer.

If it doesn't pop right out — it will come apart.  And whatever is left after this method can be Dremeled smooth with a steel wire wheel.  USE EYE PROTECTION...

Best,

Fred

[Darin Crofton]

Be careful with those tungsten bits, Darin — they could chew up the inside of the gear.

If I get a real tough one (had one today) — I use an "L" shaped HD pick from Craftsman.

I set the gear on edge — then insert the point of the pick between the drag and the gear — then just tap it with a small hammer.

If it doesn't pop right out — it will come apart.  And whatever is left after this method can be Dremeled smooth with a steel wire wheel.  USE EYE PROTECTION...

Best,

Fred

Thanks, Fred! I fortunately didn't try the tungsten out yet, family time, so postponed til tomorrow. Will try what you suggested first. I appreciate the input!!!

[Shark Hunter]

Take your time with it.
Patience always wins. I would soak it is some transmission fluid for a couple days.

[Darin Crofton]

Take your time with it.
Patience always wins. I would soak it is some transmission fluid for a couple days.

Thanks, Daron, for another great tip, I do appreciate the help!

[RowdyW]

Remember to wear a mask or some kind of covering for your mouth and nose and do it outside. Remember that's asbestos you are dealing with.                    Rudy

[Caranx]

If it is till hard to get the washer out, use a dull 1/4" drill bit and drill holes at a low rpm into the washer. Pick out the washer in pieces.

[rfkca]

If you're not saving the washer (I assume you're not), applying heat from a propane torch works for me. I spray a little (very little) wd 40 on the washer, place it in a vise, apply flame tip to bottom and sides of main gear for 15 seconds, let it cool for a 15 seconds, apply a pick to the the spot where the gap should be (from the bottom of washer to inside of base of main gear) and push it out. If not successful, repeat.  Wear heatproof gloves, eye protection etc as recommended above. Use a rubber dremel bit to clean up the base of the main washer.

[Cortez_Conversions]

Remember to wear a mask or some kind of covering for your mouth and nose and do it outside. Remember that's asbestos you are dealing with.                    Rudy

Exactly what Rudy said! Wet it down with oil, not water. Oil will keep the fibers in solution.

[mike1010]

Remember to wear a mask or some kind of covering for your mouth and nose and do it outside. Remember that's asbestos you are dealing with.                    Rudy

And remember that many of the off-brand (non-Dremel) "stainless" brushes have a high lead content.

[RowdyW]

If you're not saving the washer (I assume you're not), applying heat from a propane torch works for me. I spray a little (very little) wd 40 on the washer, place it in a vise, apply flame tip to bottom and sides of main gear for 15 seconds, let it cool for a 15 seconds, apply a pick to the the spot where the gap should be (from the bottom of washer to inside of base of main gear) and push it out. If not successful, repeat.  Wear heatproof gloves, eye protection etc as recommended above. Use a rubber dremel bit to clean up the base of the main washer.

Be careful how much heat you put to the gear, it is a HEAT TREATED gear. To much heat will draw the temper out of the gear & make it worse then using a bronze gear.