Anyone know if these clamps - like Irwin - have a life expectancy as it relates to holding strength? I.e., do they lose holding power as they get old? Also, I occasionally use 'Dry-Lube' silicone spray on them to keep them in working order and wonder if this might contribute to them wearing out?
I never opened one up to look at the mechanism.
Thanks - Jim
One Handed type Bar Clamps
Re: One Handed type Bar Clamps
I've never opened one up either but I have to imagine that they rely to a certain extent upon friction between bar and movable clamp to maintain pressure. I have some that have withstood years and years of use and abuse and show no sign of losing their holding strength......but I haven't been spraying them with a very slippery liquid!
I've never seen any manufacturer recommendation to lubricate so I'd stay well clear of oil, silicone spray etc.
I've never seen any manufacturer recommendation to lubricate so I'd stay well clear of oil, silicone spray etc.
Re: One Handed type Bar Clamps
I have used them for years (by Vise Grip). They haven't lost strength, but the operator has
The ones I use don't have much to wear out, three bits of steel with a slot for the bar, a couple of springs, the gripper, and the bar. I use them all the time and the finish hasn't even worn off.
Silicon lube on the other hand might not be a good idea. If silicon gets on the wood it can mess up the finish.

Silicon lube on the other hand might not be a good idea. If silicon gets on the wood it can mess up the finish.
Re: One Handed type Bar Clamps
I have a bunch of them form when I owned a cabinet shop.( you can never have too many clamps.)
my exp is they do wear out after a few years of every day use and they don't like glue on the bar. I would never use them to clamp up a glue up or to pull a joint together. as a "quick clamp" while you do a something else( drill for a screw, make a make a mark and etc) they are fine.
my exp is they do wear out after a few years of every day use and they don't like glue on the bar. I would never use them to clamp up a glue up or to pull a joint together. as a "quick clamp" while you do a something else( drill for a screw, make a make a mark and etc) they are fine.