Replacing Snaps

[dwain]

I am getting tired of replacing the snaps on my Seafarer. Is there some secret method of installing the snaps that will stay? I use the special tool and proper snaps. Thanks

 

[Fish Tank]

Is this the tool you are using? I've never had a problem using this method
http://www.sailrite.com/Pres-N-Snap-Fastener-Tool

 

[dwain]

Hi Fish Tank: No that is not the tool. I have never seen the one you mentioned. I purchased the one that you try to hammer on. What a waste? The tool you mentioned is really something else, and I can see how it would work so much better. The cost is wow???

 

[seasick]

Hi Fish Tank: No that is not the tool. I have never seen the one you mentioned. I purchased the one that you try to hammer on. What a waste? The tool you mentioned is really something else, and I can see how it would work so much better. The cost is wow???

The tool is expensive. I suggest you bring your canvas to a canvas shop and have them replace the snaps. They should last a long time if properly done. It will be cheaper than buying the tool.

 

[Walkers Edge]

I bought a kit to replace the snaps on my cushions, the kit had 2 pieces that fit in the jaws of normal size vice grips. Also bought about 100 replacement snaps. Total cost ~$20, takes about 20 seconds per snap.

 

[dwain]

Hi Walker's Edge: Thanks for the info. Did you purchase your kit at West Marine? I would be interested in something that fils into my vice grips.

 

[sfc2113]

Replace most of my snaps 2 years ago with this,
http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/st ... sNum=10677

The tools is cheap stamp metal it works well if you dont over grip, you dont need to apply much pressure, the rivits compress real easy. I hear about the handle bending but If used correctly it will not bend

still using it. they are still holding strong.

Here are the vise grip attachments:


http://www.perfectfit.com/237166/produc ... eners.html

 

[LeapFrog]

An ounce of prevention...

I picked up one of these... wroks great for unsnapping the canvas to prevent the snaps from popping loose...

http://www.overtons.com/modperl/product/details.cgi?pdesc=Top_Snapper&i=72146&merchID=1006&r=view

An occasional shot of WD40 or Powerlube on the snaps will help too...

 

[G8RDave]

Is this the tool you are using? I've never had a problem using this method
http://www.sailrite.com/Pres-N-Snap-Fastener-Tool

That's the tool I use and I love it. The problem comes from the snaps corroding. Snap lube seems to help.

 

[SC Adventure 208]

I just got my tool from West Marine and easily replaced the snaps on my cushions. Just a word of caution...make sure you put the right snap (male or female) where it belongs. They're a little tougher to remove.

 

[BobP]

The kit that uses the vice grips works good enough, not for the pros but for us is fine and way less expensive -found mine at Freeport Marine in Freeport, NY. You use your own vice grips or buy ones.
The one I bought is made of metal parts, the former I had was made of plastic not so good would not recommend them.

 

[rcrudder]

Vaseline Petroleum Jelly

 

[Fishtales]

Why do you need at tool? I use a flared nail set, a block of wood and a hammer. Attach the snap, place the round side on the block, tap the set into the male end of the snap and flare it out a bit, then tap the flared end flat. Takes 2 seconds (just like this :-| ) and they last fine.

I would use the white plastic grady snap remover and vasoline as stated. The rings in the snaps should loosen over time which helps snapping and unsnapping.