End Link Advice

[JoeyB]

The end links on the rep folded Oyster and on many Jubilee bracelets use the short 'tubes' welded in place. Does anyone have a method to open them up to take gen spring bars? I tried using a whole lot of oil and a pin vise, but the tube weld broke. Any ideas? 

[specialvat]

I used beauty scissors, tiny pair think they are for eyelash trimming.

 

Sharp enough to cut the thin metal tho.

[mymanmatt]

I think the gens are 2mm. Lowes and home depot have metric drill bits, including the 2mm drill bit. That should do it.

[panerai153]

Matt, if you dril them out, is their going to be any/enough metal left? I'm wondering, because i have several sets of end linke that are useless with 2mm springbars.

[jmb]

I've never had much luck even with tapered reamers as the solder/braze always seems to let loose.  I have used the "JB-Weld method" outlined in a thread here with good results...

[JoeyB]

Using a 1.95mm drill bit leaves no metal, if it doesn't tear the little tube loose. As JMB said, I used JB weld on one once and it held. 

 

I think I'm going to try a combination of suggestions. Cutting the tube to enlarge it. And then try using silver solder to close it, and reset if it comes off. I'll be in the laboratory...