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are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2024 1:50 pm
by Pile Driver
I have this recent find, the button close mechanism won't retain the blade. Its in nice shape overall despite the bug bite, the pin is very stable at that location.
bobc.jpg

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2024 3:29 pm
by Killgar
Does the sear hold the blade securely in the open/locked position?

If the sear holds the blade securely open, but won't hold the blade closed, that would lead me to believe the closed catch hole in the blade is worn.

If the sear won't hold the blade securely in either the open or closed position that would lead me to believe that the sear is worn down. But the closed hole could also be worn as well.

If the pivot is sloppy loose that could also affect how well the knife stays closed. A sloppy loose pivot could cause the sear to not fully engage the blade catch hole, and any wear would only make this worse.

If the cause of the problem is a worn blade catch hole, I believe the only fix is to have some micro laser welding done to add steel to the hole.

If the sear is worn, it may need to be replaced.

I would inquire with Bill DeShivs about a fix as he is the expert on such things.

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Tue Feb 06, 2024 6:42 pm
by Pile Driver
Doesnt keep it open either, I can fold it closed without pushing the button in

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 3:13 am
by jw517
I’m with Killgar. It’s worn out.

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 3:16 am
by jw517
Is the back spring normal? It looks odd,too high at the blade. Maybe it’s broke? Pin broke?

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 4:05 am
by wiseguy
If you rotate the blade closed, can you see the lock slot on the butt of the blade-tang ? If so, are the edges crisp ? Or chipped out/worn

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 1:31 pm
by Pile Driver
jw517 wrote: Wed Feb 07, 2024 3:16 am Is the back spring normal? It looks odd,too high at the blade. Maybe it’s broke? Pin broke?
Yes I know its worn out, it is a button open button close mechanism, it doesn't have a lock plate - the rocker goes all the way up and meets the tang. Without seeing the inner workings, I believe it is like a key/keyway

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 1:33 pm
by Pile Driver
wiseguy wrote: Wed Feb 07, 2024 4:05 am If you rotate the blade closed, can you see the lock slot on the butt of the blade-tang ? If so, are the edges crisp ? Or chipped out/worn
I can try for better photos at home, here is a listing photo
s-l1600 (2)~3.jpg
s-l1600 (2)~3.jpg (51.76 KiB) Viewed 1097 times

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 1:42 pm
by jw517
That’s why I asked about the back spring. Is it strong enough to hold the tang down? Maybe ya got more than one prob.
IMG_0594.jpeg

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 2:38 pm
by jw517
Kind of like a lever lock or Rizzy without the round holes. :shock:

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 5:40 pm
by wiseguy
Well…. It might be a good time to start getting familiar with the inner workings of what you’re collecting…. Of most vintage autos ( for me) the Italian are the easiest to work on .

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Wed Feb 07, 2024 6:04 pm
by jw517
Actually I’ve never worked on one of these but they look pretty straight forward. Lever lock in disguise! One has holes,one slots.

Re: are bobc mechanisms difficult

Posted: Sat Mar 30, 2024 7:22 am
by 1OldTreeClimber
I know this is an old post but,,,every one of these that I've worked on the corners were worn off the sear. The blades tend to hold their shape as they are harder metal. Remove switch,weld up and re-shape the sear,or just fabricate a new one. If you're a capable welder the total cost is maybe two dollars including the cost of new pins for re-assembly.