Ava Monroe
Working with recycled wood can be a great source for DIY projects, but removing nails can be an annoying task, especially when the nail head is broken. One solution is to make a DIY nail puller, which can be created using a broken hammer head and a worn wire cutter. The long handle of the wire cutter is useful for grabbing nails in various positions, and its rubber grip makes it easier to handle. The hammer head can be maintained or modified to improve nail removal. Finally, the parts can be assembled using an M6 bolt and Nyloc Nut, which is designed not to open when shaken, making it secure for the job.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To create a tool for removing nails, especially those that have lost their heads |
| Materials | Broken hammer head, worn wire cutter, M6 bolt, Nyloc nut |
| Assembly | Parts are assembled using the M6 bolt and Nyloc nut |
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$11.99 $13.99
What You'll Learn
Sourcing materials: broken hammer head and worn wire cutter
Sourcing the materials for a DIY nail puller is easy if you have access to a garage or a toolbox. You will need a broken hammer head and a worn wire cutter.
The hammer head should be cleaned of any wood remains before you start. It's a good idea to maintain its original functionality, but with the added benefit of advanced nail removal capabilities.
For the wire cutter, look for one with a long handle that is already equipped with rubber for a good grip. Since it is designed for cutting, it will be able to withstand the torques that will be activated when pulling nails. The handle will need to be cut and shaped to fit inside the hammer head opening, so make sure it can swing freely.
The most challenging part of this project is drilling the hammer head for the hinge. As the hammer head is made of tempered steel, it is difficult to drill, and a handheld drill may not be powerful enough. You may need to use a stationary drill to create a hole large enough to fit an M6 bolt.
With these two simple tools, you can create a powerful nail-pulling device, saving you time and effort when working with nails.
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Prepare the wood: cut and shape for assembly
To prepare the wood for your nail puller, start by selecting a suitable piece of timber. Choose a type of wood that is sturdy and durable, such as hardwood. Ensure the wood is free from any knots or cracks that could compromise its structural integrity.
Cut the wood to the desired length for your nail puller. The length will depend on the size and proportions you want for your tool. Use a sharp handsaw or power saw to make straight and precise cuts. If you're creating a longer nail puller, you may need to join multiple pieces of wood together to achieve the desired length.
Shape the wood to create a comfortable grip and functional design. Mark out the sections you want to shape with a pencil, ensuring symmetry. Carefully cut and chisel the wood to shape, using appropriate tools such as a jigsaw, hand plane, or wood carving tools. Smooth out any rough surfaces with sandpaper to create a comfortable grip and a polished finish.
Drill holes in the wood for any additional components or attachments. For example, you might want to add a rubber grip or a hanging hole for storage. Ensure the holes are drilled at the correct depth and width for the components you plan to use.
Finally, treat the wood to protect it and enhance its durability. You can apply a wood finish or sealant to preserve the natural beauty of the grain while also protecting it from moisture and stains. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times.
Once the wood is prepared, you can move on to assembling the nail puller, adding any metal components, and securing them in place.
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Assemble the parts: M6 bolt and Nyloc Nut
To assemble the parts, you will need an M6 bolt and a Nyloc nut. M6 bolts are known for their strength and reliability, making them a versatile fastening solution. They are commonly used in construction, automotive, and mechanical applications. The "M" in M6 indicates that it is a metric bolt, and the "6" refers to its diameter in millimetres.
Nyloc nuts, also known as nylock or lock nuts, have a nylon ring insert that increases friction with the bolt, making it resistant to loosening during operation. This type of nut is designed to be tightened securely and should be replaced each time it is removed. When assembling the Nyloc nut with the M6 bolt, start by threading the bolt through the plastic insert. It may require more force than a typical nut and bolt combination due to the presence of the nylon insert.
Use a wrench to tighten the Nyloc nut onto the M6 bolt. The wrench can be a locknut wrench or any wrench that fits the nut. Ensure that the nut is tightened securely, as it is designed to resist vibration and prevent accidental loosening. The torque applied during tightening will create a tension load in the shank of the bolt, contributing to the overall strength and stability of the assembly.
It is important to note that metric nuts and bolts typically have identification markings that indicate their strength. These markings are usually found on the top or side of the bolt head and consist of two numbers separated by a decimal point. The first number represents the breaking strength of the steel, indicating the load-bearing capacity of the bolt per square millimetre of its cross-section.
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Test the torque: ensure it can withstand force
Torque testing is a crucial step in evaluating the safety and efficiency of your nail puller tool. It helps determine the reaction of your tool to applied rotational force, ensuring it can withstand the necessary force for its intended use.
There are various methods to test torque, and the right approach depends on the specific application and requirements. Direct torque measurement methods are generally more accurate than indirect methods. Direct methods involve using a strain gauge mounted on the drive shaft of your nail puller. This sensor directly measures the twisting force, providing precise data.
Indirect torque measurement techniques, while cheaper and easier to implement, are less accurate. One indirect method involves estimating torque by knowing the motor's efficiency and measuring its shaft speed and current consumption.
To ensure the safety and functionality of your nail puller, consider the following torque testing procedures:
- Utilize a torque tester or torque analyzer, which is a specialized tool for conducting torque tests.
- Measure bolt stretch by accessing both ends of the fastener. This method provides an accurate representation of the applied torque.
- Employ an ultrasonic torque gauge to measure the elongation of the bolt, unaffected by friction.
- Mark the position of the fastener head, loosen it, and then retighten it to the specified torque. Check if the mark alignment has changed, indicating potential loosening or thermal expansion.
- Consider the environmental factors, such as corrosion, lubrication, and thread locker usage, as they can significantly impact the torque required.
- Evaluate the nail puller's performance in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions to determine the maximum torque the joint can withstand in either direction.
By performing these tests, you can ensure that your nail puller can withstand the required force and meet the necessary safety standards for its intended application.
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Paint or coat: for durability and personalisation
Once you've made your nail puller, you'll want to protect it and any other metal tools you own with a paint or coating. Metal coatings are paints applied to metal surfaces to protect them from corrosion and increase their lifespan. They can also be used to achieve your desired aesthetic, including your preferred paint colour and gloss level.
There are many types of metal coatings available, including corrosion-resistant coatings and solvent-borne coatings, which are ideal for environments with high humidity. If you're coating equipment that will be used outdoors or in a harbour environment, for example, you'll need a higher level of protection than if it were used indoors.
One option for a protective coating is STEEL-IT®, a stainless steel coating for metal surfaces that offers high corrosion resistance and durability. STEEL-IT® is loaded with hard-gripping 316L stainless steel micro-flakes, which bond hard to form a protective shield that blocks corrosion and abrasion. It can withstand harsh conditions and climates and is easy to apply and touch up.
Another option is Tikkurila's Fontefire ST 60-1, a water-borne intumescent coating that protects metal structures from reaching critical temperatures by creating an insulating foam layer. Tikkurila also offers a range of other metal coating systems, including solvent-borne primers and topcoats, high-solids paints, solvent-free coatings, and water-borne products.
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Frequently asked questions
A broken hammer head and a worn wire cutter can be used to make a nail puller.
A worn wire cutter is useful because it has a long handle that is rubber-equipped for grabbing and, since it is designed for cutting, it can withstand the torques that will be activated during the pull.
You can use an M6 bolt and Nyloc Nut to assemble the parts of your nail puller. The Nyloc nut is designed not to open when shaken, making it perfect for the job.
