best tool for rlx tube removal?

[db1]

Hi,

before i buy a paperweight,

wanted to get some more experienced-wise advice on a rlx tube tool.

i have read all posts on the board about them, have seen about 2-3 version on diff. places online which sells for ~$34-40

i know there is that "popular" tool all over the bay with the red/orange/blue plastic handle that sells for $39,

i have also seen an all-steel tool for around the same price somewhere on the net.

maybe there is some more versions of this tool?

which tool is the most recommended to use ?

btw: if anyone has a good one and has no use for it, i am also opened for a 2nd hand buy =]

i just need if for one tube replacement job,

db1

[Omega]

There are a few versions of them, for every tube size there is a tool, but they don't work on rep tubes...

For removing you can use a small triangular file, for mounting also but you have to take care.

For the 7mm crown tubes tool I've paid 45,-

[alligoat]

When you're removing a rep tube, a rat tail file works OK, just jam it up there and turn counterclockwise. Sometimes it's a good idea to heat up the case first to loosen the glue- yep, they are gluing those babies in there now days. I've never seen a rep tube which had the grooves where you could use a Rolex tool. Sometimes it's necessary to turn it out of there with a pair of pliers- trashes out the rep tube, but it's only going in the trash can anyways.

http://www.julesborel.com/horological/page202.htm

Here's the tool for installing the new tube- 6mm gents- new style.

It's a good idea to clean out the threads with a tap also before you install the new tube- the 3mm x 3.5 is correct size for the Sub case tubes.

A little bit of blue loc-tite on the tube threads is also a good idea.

[db1]

thanks for the input Omega !

yeah, i will not try to remove the rep tube with the rlx tool. but some people told me that after removing the rep tube and re-tapping, for the gen tube installation i better off screw it in with a proper tool, thats the way to go? or there a trick i hevent heard of ? =]

i will buy a tool, just wanted to know if these sold on ebay (with the plastic handle for $39) get the job done right, maybe some member on rwg had used one of these and can confirm?

\db1

[db1]

thanks for the info alligoat

yeah i've got the tap, and will probably heat the tube before removal to loosen up the glue in there. after removal i plan to re-tap the hole any case (even if the threads are fine, the re-taping will clean the glue out) and then countersink the hole , then install the gen tube.

i think the all-steel tool you mentioned on the link looks more durable then the one sold on the bay, i'll give that a try.

do you know if the a7750 stem will screw-into the gen 7mm rlx crown nicely? or will need glueing ?

db1

[db1]

just placed an order at julesborrel for the rlx tube tool.

i thought i'll pay instantly with paypal right after order completion.

it "transmitted" my order without asking for a payment method. how is that being done on julesborel?

(btw: i dont reside in the US for the next 2 years, i wonder if they ship over-seas)

Edited December 25, 2008 by db1

[alligoat]

I've paid by credit card in the past with them. Last order on line, they automatically charged it to my c.c. which they have on file. You might give them a call Friday to follow up.

I would think the 7750 stem would screw into the Rolex crown- it's worked for me on the eta and asian stems, just never tried on a 7750 stem.

[Omega]

It's a good idea to clean out the threads with a tap also before you install the new tube- the 3mm x 3.5 is correct size for the Sub case tubes.

Errm...you mean 3mm X 0,35mm for sure...

EDIT: You can use this for removing the tube without to damage it. I build one for me with a wood handpart only for removing watch-tubes...

[db1]

thanks for the tips Omega =]

about tube tool: already placed an "order" @ julesborel for an all-steel one. emailed them to ask about paypal payment.

i will probably only get a reply later on, cause of the holiday.

Omega: i have also seen one post where pugwash said he's cutting a "groove" on top of the tube and unscrewing it with a sharp screwdriver- what an unusual, but pretty clever method to remove a tube! i never thought of that before i had seen his post (sounds like a good method in case you are sure you dont need the tube later)

[Omega]

OK, but with my tool there are no damages on the tube and you can use it again!

Some member won't invest for gen tube and crown, but for a correct CG job the tube has to be removed - so I have to use it again.

[Nanuq]

Great posts guys... now I have a slightly different question, same topic:

What about removing a tube that has threads on the inside? My Doxa screws down watertight but the outer surface of the tube is smooth, with wear marks from an o-ring working against it. I can't think of how to unscrew it without messing up the inner threads?

Ideas?

[kbh]

Great posts guys... now I have a slightly different question, same topic:

What about removing a tube that has threads on the inside? My Doxa screws down watertight but the outer surface of the tube is smooth, with wear marks from an o-ring working against it. I can't think of how to unscrew it without messing up the inner threads?

Ideas?

Find a nut and bolt the same size. Screw in the bolt (or screw) into the tube then tighten the nut real tight and back out the nut and bolt.