Straighten a Bent 19 inch Rackmount Ear

[dayna]

Hi
I have aquired a drawmer DS201 which has a Bent Rack Ear. Rather than reaching for the Standard Pliers etc, I was wondering/hoping if somebody could offer a more elequent Solution/Fix.
thanks in advance
Mike Dixon

[vout]

Hi,

I've dealt with this problem a few times - most rack units seem to be pretty pliable when it comes to straightening any kinks out. The best method I have found is to use an offcut from an old leather belt, fold it over the metal so you are protecting both sides, then use a locking pliers to straighten the metal (tighten the pliers just so they grip firmly without slipping). You will soon get a feel for where to apply pressure and the leather protects the paint and metalwork from damage.

Hope that helps.

Cheers, vout

[. . . Delete This User . . .]

leather padded bench vice.....

but generally the same basic method as offered already.

[Mike Stranks]

leather padded bench vice.....

but generally the same basic method as offered already.

+1

[Folderol]

Before attempting any remedial work, I'd suggest having a good look at the offending ear and try to work out how it got bent in the first place.

One of my colleagues had this situation, where it looked like someone had tried to pull the unit out of the rack while one bolt was still in place! The answer was a length of 6mm studding, two nuts and washers, then simply ease the ear back in line by levering on the studding in the opposite direction to the bend.