Replies

1. 
   bigfootnampa | Dec 15, 2004 08:35pm | #1

   The T nuts won't work.  You could use threaded inserts but it is not a simple fix at all.  I would suggest that you fill the screw holes with Golden's moldiing paste and then reinstall (after the molding paste dries).  Just fill them once and the shrinkage will give you a nice starter hole.  Don't rush the process or it will fail, give the molding paste a couple of days to dry.   The molding paste will strengthen the wood in the area and provide a new bite for the screws.  This fix will usually outlast the original system but is still not as good as having bolts for attachment because screws are too coarse threaded for optimal durability.  If you decide to go with threaded inserts set them overdeep and epoxy them in if your knobs are spindle turned because of the inability of the threads on the inserts to hold in end grain.  If your knobs are flat grained you may be able to use the threaded inserts in a standard manner successfully.

1. 
   ripmeister | Dec 15, 2004 08:53pm | #2

   I've not heard of Goldens molding paste.  Is it like an epoxy or wood filler that I would fill the existing hole with and then redrill for the screw?  Is Goldens something I would find at Rockler or Woodcraft or HD? Thanks.

1. 
   bigfootnampa | Dec 15, 2004 09:24pm | #3

   Golden's molding paste is an acryliic gel wih pumice powder added for stiffness and thickening.  It can be found at some craft stores and artist's suppliers.  Michael's has it if there is one of those near you.  I believe that Dick Blick carries it online and in some stores.  You can check Golden's website at;  http://www.goldenpaints.com

1. 
   ripmeister | Dec 15, 2004 09:30pm | #4

   Thanks. I'll give it a try.

2. 
   Dan019 | Dec 15, 2004 09:40pm | #6

   Hey Rip,

   Just drop a dab of yellow glue (or epoxy) into the existing hole and fill hole with wooden toothpick/wooden qtip/bbq skewer or the like (from craft store) and clip off the excess with a pair of dykes. I use a pair of flush-cut dykes from electronics repair from Radio Shack but you can use any pair.

   I do this all the time for screw holes that wind up being off for any number of reasons. Works fine and lasts a long time.

   Dan 

2. 
   BG | Dec 15, 2004 09:37pm | #5

   ripmeister,

   I have a few pieces of furniture like yours. I just took some tooth picks, dip in glue and shove them in the hole.  Re-drill and put the screw back in...I'm sure I'll be cursed in about another hundred years....lol

    

3. 
   301 | Dec 17, 2004 08:19am | #7

   If the pulls are real antiques and are important to the piece (original and impossible to replace) you could drill out a shallow plug in the back with a forstner bit (use a drill press and sit the pull on a soft surface on a slip-proof rubber pad).  Peck at it gently and use a slow speed.  In other words try not to do more damage to the pull then you will be fixing, take your time.  Plug the hole with a shallow plug of wood and yellow glue.  Redrill as needed.