Toggle for Plastic Tool Case Latch

prusaprinters

<p>Have you got an expensive tool set in a plastic blow-molded case?</p> <p>I'll bet one of the plastic latches that holds it shut is broken! Surprisingly, even though the tool inside the case usually cost thousands of dollars, the case itself is not very durable and is usually not available separately. Of course parts for the case, such as latch handles or toggles are absolutely never available.</p> <p>Until now!</p> <p>Stop taping shut or using Bungee Cords to keep your monstrously expensive tool sets enclosed! Print out these handy repair parts to repair the broken over-center toggle that fixes the latch handle to the case.</p> <p>There are two versions, 1a, which is easier to print but might need some post printing grinding / filing for the latch to full shut and version 1b with a clearance notch for the tool case. The notch is fairly wide and reduces the footprint on your 3D printer's build plate which could lead to warping and failed prints, so I included the first version which is pictured in place after grinding to fit.</p> <p>The original parts are apparently ABS. As they are subject to high stress, I recommend using ABS, ASA or maybe PETG... something that is fairly "tough" and will maybe give a bit before cracking.</p> <h3>Post-Printing</h3> <p>The holes are intentionally sized too small so the they can be drilled out for a tight fit.</p> <p>I found that a Number 40 drill bit gives a good fit for the retaining pins.</p> <p>If using the Version 1a Toggle, the latch will not fully close until a relief slot is carved out of the Toggle. A file, sanding block or grinder can be used to grind a clearance slot. Picture #4 shows an installed v1a toggle that has been filed down to fit.</p> <p>Version 1b has the relief slot designed in. This might cause a greater tendency to warp or detach during printing.</p> Category: Tool Holders & Boxes