It’s always a cool feeling walking around an assembly line or installation station and seeing your parts or tools being put to good use.
But it’s even sweeter when you see an old tool of yours still being used by the assemblers and it’s still humming. On a recent trip to a construction, military and heavy duty truck fabricator to check out the assembly line, we came across one of our first, possibly THE first, FLEX-5 rivet nut tool we’ve ever sold – and it’s still in use!
Check out this photo of this first generation FLEX-5 that’s used to install Sherex Rivet Nut Studs. Based on the serial number, this was probably delivered in the second half of 2009. Almost 12 years old and still installing rivet nut studs today. COOL!
Possibly the first FLEX-5 delivered to a customer in late 2009
Now, this particular user does have a new FLEX-5 that they are using on the line, but “Ol’ Reliable” is still humming too.
When these images were shared with our Engineering Technician, Mike, who services a lot of our tools, he was quite impressed.
“These older FLEX-5’s hold up really well with just some basic care.” Mike said. “But even knowing that, it’s cool seeing one still out in the wild.”
Mike has FLEX-5 serial No. 1 on his desk, which is a keepsake at Sherex Headquarters for now.
FLEX-5 Serial No. 1, from probably late 2008 – early 2009
Easy FLEX-5 Maintenance Tips!
Basic care of hydro-pnuematic rivet nut tools is really important to their durability. Here are a few easy steps to take to ensure a long-lasting tool like the ones above.
- If the air supply is not equipped with lubricator before use, squeeze a few drops of light lubricating oil on the tool air inlet.
- High friction locations, such as spindle housing, should be re-greased with a high speed, high temperature grease.
- Every 500,000 cycles the tool should be completely checked and parts that are worn or damaged should be replaced.
- O-rings should be replaced and lubricated with Molykote® 55M grease or equivalent before assembly.
Please contact Sherex to order replacement o-rings and lubricant. Remember, if having any issues with your tool, contact Sherex.