Pin straightener 3d model

[astouffer]

Anyone ever sketch up a pin straightener tool for 7 and 9 pin tubes? Looks like it would be a simple 3d print but searches turned up nothing.

 

[rayma]

These are available, metal is best for regular use.

1 Vacuum Tube Pin Straightener - Unique Electronics Tool - 14 Colors Available | eBay
https://www.amazon.com/Riverstone-Audio-Straightener-Stainless-Straightens/dp/B074DZLFCK

 

[astouffer]

Haha the ebay auction is definitely 3d printed. Maybe I’ll sketch up something and post it. This is DIY after all.

 

[rayma]

Audio electronics yes, but I'd rather not try to make the tools myself.

 

[mike567]

Old tube sockets make good pin straighteners

 

[rayma]

A tube pin straightener has to be much stronger than the tube pin in order to work.

 

[mike567]

I guess I should have tube pin alignment device. Small bull nose pliers (no teeth) are my goto tool then into the tube socket

 

[rayma]

A purpose-made tube pin straightener works much better than pliers. With the cost of tubes now,
this device is very worthwhile.

 

[Windcrest77]

Anyone ever sketch up a pin straightener tool for 7 and 9 pin tubes? Looks like it would be a simple 3d print but searches turned up nothing.

My 1940's vintage 7 pin straightener has 8 holes, the 9 pin has 10 holes, pin straighteners don't account for the missing pin. with a micrometer it wouldn't be difficult to draw one up and machine it from some 3/4 inch aluminum bar stock on the CNC even with beveled entry holes. I'm sure an accurate diameter measurement is available so you wouldn't have to measure it, it is a standard. In CAD for stuff like this I just draw an 8 sided or 10 sided polygon of the diameter, then drag a circle snapped onto each vertex. Then size the holes to be very snug on the pins. Then delete the polygon. The holes would have to be peck drilled as an end mill that small in diameter is not available that long.

Even easier CNC run would be to machine it from Corian or a very dense wood like Lignum.

 

[kodabmx]

I'm the same as Mike567. I use either my finger to bend the pins or a pair of small needle nose...

 

[Ray Waters]

I have the Riverstone stainless steel straightener mentioned in post #2; it is excellent.

Here is another one that I have which can be screwed into your test bench if desired. It is also a good choice.

NOS Tube Pin Straightener – VintageFenderAmpRepair.com

 

[smoking-amp]

Here is a nice 1/4 inch thick fiberglass pin straightener I found on Ebay a couple of years ago. Can't find it now though.