SS Spring Straps

[headonkey]

I've just ordered the springs from McMaster-Carr (http://www.mcmaster.com) to make my stainless steel spring straps. The info:

Part # 3932K54Long Type 302 SS Extension Spring 11" Length, 1/2" OD, .062" Wire Diameter In stock at $5.14 per Pack

I'm using this as a guide: http://www.brianb.org/images/Scuba/Homemade/Fin%20Straps/fin_straps.htm

The only exception is that I'll be using wire ties as attachments since they're easier to work with/cheaper/easier to replace.

http://www.securitygeek.net/gallery/ScubaDIY/cheap_spring_fin_tv?full=1

 

[firemedic1015]

Wire ties are not suitable for that type of application. THEY WILL BREAK. It may not be on the first dive, it may not be on the 100th dive but they will break. Ask your self why you are going to spring straps. The answer should be to eliminate the failure point of a rubber strap. By using wire ties you will be introducing two other failure points. I would not recommend doing this.

 

[GreenDiverDown]

Wire ties are not suitable for that type of application. THEY WILL BREAK. It may not be on the first dive, it may not be on the 100th dive but they will break. Ask your self why you are going to spring straps. The answer should be to eliminate the failure point of a rubber strap. By using wire ties you will be introducing two other failure points. I would not recommend doing this.

... especially when using SS anchor shackles is SOOO EASY!

(2 pr.) 3/16" stainless steel anchor shackles and #10-32 x 3/4 SS screws from Home Depot. A bit expensive but easy to use and won't break... a very slick application.

Here's a nice thread... too bad the pics are gone.
http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=39227&highlight=spring+straps

I believe Wayward Son uses these for some fins...
http://www.scubaboard.com/showthread.php?t=156893&highlight=spring+straps

 

[Wayward Son]

I do & Home Depot is the cheapest source for the shackles I've found. they're over $2.00 each, but I don't think you have to worry much about them failing. if you order them from McMaster they run more like $5 each.

Just make sure you get the ones made from 316 stainless steel.

 

[headonkey]

Oh man those shackles look great. Wish I would have thought of that. Off to Home Depot!

 

[headonkey]

a very slick application.

No kidding! I just got back from HD and those babies look great. I can't wait for my springs to come in a couple of days. I'll post pics when I get them.

Do you guys know about how much nylon line I should use?

 

[Wayward Son]

I tie them about 2.5 to 3 inches longer than the unstretched springs. You need enough room to be able to get them over your heels but not so much you risk permanently springing them by over stretching.

 

[GreenDiverDown]

Well... if you're like me, then you probably need to go back to HD to get a few more things... I always make 2 or 3 HD trips per project!

You need...

10-32 x 3/4 SS screws
Vinyl tubing 3/4" OD x 5/8" ID
Braided nylon line... cave line is what most of us use but HD won't have that.
Thread lock... not required but nice.


You'll need some channel locks to squeeze the anchor bolts...

 

[headonkey]

I got the screws and tubing. I believe I have some line at home but I could pick some up at the LDS if not. As for the thread lock, could I use silicone sealant?

 

[Wayward Son]

Might not need it. I put Loctite 242 on mine.