Klippermate Clamps

[topspinlob]

I bought a used Klippermate machine a couple months. I have strung 3 rackets already and have gotten down the string job time to 1.5 hours. I have been trying to get adjust the clamps so that it holds the tensioned string well BUT not make any marks or dig into the strings

I remember finding something here on the TW forums to address but I can't seem to find it again. Any advice?

 

[topanlego]

I bought a used Klippermate machine a couple months. I have strung 3 rackets already and have gotten down the string job time to 1.5 hours. I have been trying to get adjust the clamps so that it holds the tensioned string well BUT not make any marks or dig into the strings

I remember finding something here on the TW forums to address but I can't seem to find it again. Any advice?

There's not one specific way to adjust the clamps. It just takes experience to figure out the feel of the clamp for the 'perfect' tension.

 

[topspinlob]

There's not one specific way to adjust the clamps. It just takes experience to figure out the feel of the clamp for the 'perfect' tension.

so it's just trial and error? I was thinking of getting a loose piece of string, clamp and the string then adjust the clamps s there are no marks?

 

[polski]

If the screws are in tight, but not so tight that they strip, on the clamps on a Klippermate it will work fine. If you string synthetics or soft multi's, you will need to sand off the metal part of the clamps about every 3-4 string jobs to keep it from slipping.

 

[BobFL]

I have Klipp and the clamps are simply the worst I have ever seen. I have tried to adjust them not to leave marks but it was simply impossible: they were either no marks/too loose or good grip/yes marks

 

[jgrushing]

All I can say is that if Klippermate clamps don't work well for you, it's because you've messed them up or don't know what you're doing. They are easy to adjust for any gauge of string. I've used the same set for 20 years and they don't mess up anything. I virtually never have go clean them and have never taken sandpaper to them.

Call the folks at Klipperusa if you're unsure how to adjust. They are sure to help.

 

[BobFL]

Btw, as a locking pliers those tolls are great (chrome vanadium alloy = excellent quality). However, I have no idea who came up with the idea to weld 2 metal pieces to the pliers' jaws to make them operate as a flying clams. Terrible idea...

 

[jgrushing]

Totally disagree as do many, many others. Of the entry level stringers, the Klipper clamps blow the others away, IMO, because they're based on a proven tool. I have the Gamma clamps also and the Klippermates are much better and easier to use.

To the originator of the thread. All you have to do to adjust is loosen the nut locking the bolt in the handle of the clamp. Then, tighten or loosen the clamps to the desired setting using that handle bolt. Once you've done that, re-tighten the nut that holds the bolt. You don't have to screw around with the smaller pins at the top of the clamp. I think that's where most people mess up.

Just adjust the clamps as you would the vise grip plier tool. I've seen people post about how bad they are. Obviously, since Klipper has been selling them unchanged for so many years, they work and work well. I'd challenge you to find marks on my strings any time. I string mostly 16 gauge but switch and adjust for 17 g regularly. Just don't listen to the people that don't know what they're doing. Your clamps are great.

 

[beernutz]

I used a Klippermate for 5 years and never had to adjust my clamps. I cleaned them frequently though. I do agree with jgrushing's sentiment that if you think the Klippermates are the worst flying clamps out there, you haven't seen many flying clamps.

 

[BobFL]

Yes, proven tool for holding and handling steel and iron parts, pipes etc but too harsh for a tender strings

 

[jgrushing]

Yes, proven tool for holding and handling steel and iron parts, pipes etc but too harsh for a tender strings

Fine. You obviously don't know how to work them.

 

[topspinlob]

thanks for input guys!.. I did my first hybrid string jobs last night....I adjusted the clamps and less "marking" or flattening of the strings..... I'm almost there.....stringing rackets gets addicting I must say....

 

[max]

It's a trial and error thing. Once you find the right place, you won't mark up or bend strings any. Take a scrap bit of string and experiment. That'll do it.

The only time I really have to adjust mine nowadays is when I switch gauges or use some kind of textured string. They're a pretty damn solid clamp.