2Gang switch query concerning removal of metal plate from casing.

[gra_]

Hi folks,

I have a classic 2gang 13-amp switched socket in solid oak and I'm trying to remove the metal back plate from the oak case. I want to paint the case and it would be easier to do it this way instead of masking of the switches and sockets. Any ideas how this is done? I've removed the three main screws, but there are two pivoting metal strips which slide into the wooden case which I'm struggling with.

Any help would be appreciated
Thanks in advance

 

[sparkwright]

Do the strips not slide over inside the wooden slots?

 

[EFLImpudence]

I've not seen these myself but I would think pointed pliers to turn them.

Also, I would think you should replace the three screws otherwise the socket will come apart.



Perhaps someone else will have actual knowledge of them.

 

[sparkwright]

Yes - once those those screws are removed (you shouldn't be touching these) and you disturb all the works inside, you may as well lob the lot in the bin.

 

[flameport]

Surely the 3 screws referred to have already been removed and secured the plastic to the wooden part - not the 3 still in place which hold the socket together?

 

[sparkwright]

Pass.

 

[EFLImpudence]

I don't know but wouldn't think so. How thick can the wood be?

 

[Echo the husky]

I have just 'opened' a faulty one of these. They do not come apart as the brass screw hole rivets hold the wood to the back, even with the metal tabs rotated out of the way.

 

[DetlefSchmitz]

Painting a solid oak case?

Why not just throw it a way and use a white plastic socket?

I must be missing the point somewhere...

 

[EFLImpudence]

They do not come apart as the brass screw hole rivets hold the wood to the back,

You mean they are visible from the front??????

 

[stillp]

Looks as if the wood was glued to the black plastic, as well as held in by those rotating strips of metal.

 

[Echo the husky]

It is also glued yes, but the glue is not strong at all.

 

[gra_]

Thanks for the replies folks.

The metal strips rotate but there's not enough clearance from the metal plate for them to rotate enough to come free. Plus as mentioned above, I suspect they may have been glued as well as they do seem rather solid. And the rivets are the final issue which I think makes all the elements pretty much inseparable.

The reason I want to paint them is because I can't find switches and sockets - solid oak, plastic, or otherwise - in the colour I want, that being a match for all iron fixtures and fittings in my room(s) - cast iron radiators, door handles, etc. First world problems, I know.

 

[OwainDIYer]

They're expensive, but

http://www.broughtons.com/store/product/120589/hand-forged-plug-socket-1-gang-switched-beeswax/

 

[stillp]

The metal strips rotate but there's not enough clearance from the metal plate for them to rotate enough to come free.

Well, they went in, so they must come out. That which man hath put together, another man can split asunder.
On the other hand, you could just mask off the socket and paint the front of the oak.