How to Replace the Lock Nut and Bolt Handles on a Wilton Vise

The lock nut and bolt assembly works with the locking pads to lock the vise in place (so it doesn't rotate on its base during use). The kit includes two lock nut assemblies and two bolts. After years of use, the threads on the nuts and bolts can wear down until they strip-out entirely. If you have the vise mounted on a service truck, it's not uncommon for the locking handles to vibrate loose (and become lost) while driving down the highway.

Let's get started.

REMOVING THE LOCK NUT AND BOLT HANDLE ASSEMBLIES   1. Remove the lock nut and bolt handles.

a. Loosen and remove the two locking handles from the vise.

b. Lift the top half of the vise away from the swivel base assembly.

c. Remove the locking pads from the two bolts.

INSTALLING THE NEW LOCK NUT AND BOLT HANDLE ASSEMBLIES

  2. Install the lock nut and bolt assemblies.

a. Invert the top half of the vise (so that the vise jaws are resting on the work surface).

b. Install the outer ring onto the top half of the vise (the teeth on the outer ring should remain visible).

c. Install the locking pads onto the new bolts (the teeth on the locking pads should face away from the heads of the bolts).

d. Insert the new bolts (with locking pads) through the mounting holes on the base of the vise (the teeth on the locking pads should engage the teeth on the outer ring).

e. Thread the new locking handles onto the bolts.

f. Tighten the new locking handles to secure the swivel base assembly to the vise.

g. Return the vise to its upright position.