70 TCS metal tube straightening

[Bill L.]

The original metal tube from the TCS switch on the manifold to front of carb was bent out of shape by the previous owner.

Does anyone know of a good way to put it back to shape.

I saw the thread where I can purchase a replacement but saving the original would be ideal.


Thanks, Bill

[Joe L.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

The original metal tube from the TCS switch on the manifold to front of carb was bent out of shape by the previous owner.

Does anyone know of a good way to put it back to shape.

I saw the thread where I can purchase a replacement but saving the original would be ideal.


Thanks, Bill

Bill------


If you're talking about getting it back to its as-new configuration, I'd say forget it. This is especially true if there is any "flattening" or "kinking" of the tube which is extremely likely.

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

I was afraid of that. Luckily there is no flattening. I may be able to coerce it back to 90% of its original shape.

Thanks Joe


Bill

[Jack H.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

Yes, the part can be 'saved' but it's not a job for the timid... You have to disassemble the solenoid assy by grinding/straightening the four places where it's crimped together. Now, the internal winding, sliding plunger, Etc. will slip out of the original case.

There's no hope for repairing the plastic nipple end, the only thing you can do with it is clean it up as best you can. But, for the metal nipple end, it's a matter of inserting a dowel rod of approximately correct OD to match the tube's ID and gently tap to re-form the tube.

Understand that once the solenoid is re-assembled and installed, the rubber vac hose that connects to this nipple will cover/mask the external cosmetics of its metal surface. Here's what a decent, refurbished TCS solenoid looks like...

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

Thanks Jack,

Switch looks good.

Who does the restore and replating?

Trust me. Unless I have one to practice on, the chances of success on my original go way down if I try.


Bill

[Edward J.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

Bill, I don't know if you want to dissy. the switch for replating, But I did buy some of eastwood silver zinc paint. I cleaned the old one up with steel wool and put a light dusting of the zinc paint looks great.

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

HI Edward,

I have some of the Eastwood paint. How did it hold up with the heat on the intake?


Bill

[Edward J.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

No problems bill, I did mine a few years ago, Its a easy task just clean up withthe steel wool, I almost has a polished finish when done cleaning and just the dusting to get the desired result.

[Jack H.]

Re: 70 TCS metal tube straightening

Well different sources use different restorers + restoration methods. The pix I provided was of a vac relay (I see you call the part a 'switch') that I did myself.

About the only way you can get embedded dirt, grease and crud out of the plastic T-nipple is via total disassembly of the relay. Then, once you have the part separated into its individual components, it's a snap to take the outer case for a 'swim' through your home plating system. All of the other paint based 'look alike' finish approaches will be easily detected by savvy judges!