Nibbler: Not Cutting

A worn die holder can cause the nibbler not to cut. All models are different so procedures on changing a die holder will vary. To check and replace a worn die holder, remove the screw, lock washer, retainer and die. For some models, it is pretty straight forward on how they come off. Others may have pins holding the parts on that need to be driven out. Remove the die holder and install a new die holder. Reinstall the die, retainer, lock washer and screw.

A worn out punch can cause the nibbler not to cut. To check and change the punch, slide the collar down on the die to expose the pin and remove it with a small tool. Lift off the die and then loosen the screw on back of the nibbler head. Pull the punch housing out. Count how many rotations it takes to unscrew the punch out of the nibbler. This will allow you to keep the punch at the same height when you reassemble the nibbler. Install the new punch, counting the same number of rotations in from the time it catches on to the threads. Reinstall the punch housing and align it properly with the punch. This could take a bit of time, so be patient. Tighten the screw behind the nibbler head. Reinstall the die and the pin then pull the cover back up over the pin.

A worn out die will not cut or will cut very sloppy. To change a worn out die, slide the cover down on the die and remove the pin with a small tool. Pull off the die and install a new one with the pin. Slide the cover over the pin.