Mitutoyo battery terminal

[nc43bsa]

Is there someone on this forum who would be willing and able to fabricate a battery terminal for a Mitutoyo digital micrometer?

I found a parts list and searched for it by part number, and I found it at a service center in Houston.  In placing an online order for that, the other battery terminal, an adjusting wrench, and a plastic storage case, the cart totaled $25.00 plus $48.00 shipping, which I thought was excessive.

I called them today to see if pickup was possible (to avoid the ridiculous shipping charge) and was told the one part that I HAD to have is out-of-stock, is obsolete, and can not be ordered.

I have part of the original terminal, which was damaged by a leaking alkaline battery.

[pehayes]

Please post an image of the damaged terminal.  I have an operational Mitutoyo and perhaps someone can visualize what is needed.  BTW, when I inherited mine, the cover was off and the cover screws had disappeared.  Very tiny screws.  I found a Mitutoyo dealer who could order same for me.  IIRC it was about $4 for each tiny screw!!!!!

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[n3303j]

Solve all your future battery and electronic problems for about $26
http://tinyurl.com/5b8fyezm



I still have one of these from 50 years ago. No problem reading to 0.0001" increments.

[John Croucher]

Can't answer you question, but, yesterday, I was digging through my recently passed father in laws garage mess.  What did I find, a Mitutoyo micrometer set from .000" through 6.000".  New in box with standards.  Dial calipers, depth gages, inside micrometers, dial indicators.  He was a machinist for Republic Diesel in Louisville, KY. 

Funny thing is, I did a search on the value of the micrometers.  Over $900.00.  But then I see a Mitutoyo question show up.  Makes me believe that there are massive computer trackers and listening devices everywhere. 

I searched through 3 roll around tool boxes and pulled out a lot of engine tools I did not have.  One drawer must have been his snack drawer.  It was full of mouse nest's.  He was born and raised in Coal Country in Eastern Kentucky.  He did not throw away anything.  I tossed 7 boxes of old brake pads and shoes, windshield wiper blades, fan belts, fuel pumps, tires, used oil, old hoses, air filters, and more.  I bailed on the house.  It is two stories packed to the ceiling with "stuff".  Told my Wife to let the Sheriff take it all.  Not worth the time and effort to clean it up along with the toxic mold and animal waste. 

Try a Cellular Phone Repair Store.  Maybe They can fabricate and solder a contact back into place. 

[Huzo]

Can't answer you question, but, yesterday, I was digging through my recently passed father in laws garage mess.  What did I find, a Mitutoyo micrometer set from .000" through 6.000".  New in box with standards.  Dial calipers, depth gages, inside micrometers, dial indicators.  He was a machinist for Republic Diesel in Louisville, KY. 

Funny thing is, I did a search on the value of the micrometers.  Over $900.00.  But then I see a Mitutoyo question show up.  Makes me believe that there are massive computer trackers and listening devices everywhere. 

I searched through 3 roll around tool boxes and pulled out a lot of engine tools I did not have.  One drawer must have been his snack drawer.  It was full of mouse nest's.  He was born and raised in Coal Country in Eastern Kentucky.  He did not throw away anything.  I tossed 7 boxes of old brake pads and shoes, windshield wiper blades, fan belts, fuel pumps, tires, used oil, old hoses, air filters, and more.  I bailed on the house.  It is two stories packed to the ceiling with "stuff".  Told my Wife to let the Sheriff take it all.  Not worth the time and effort to clean it up along with the toxic mold and animal waste. 

Try a Cellular Phone Repair Store.  Maybe They can fabricate and solder a contact back into place.

That “mess” represents his life.
So you cherry picked from his worldly possessions in the shed, but “not worth” helping with your wife’s Dad’s home…

Classy….

[John Croucher]

That “mess” represents his life.
So you cherry picked from his worldly possessions in the shed, but “not worth” helping with your wife’s Dad’s home…

Classy….

You missed the part about animal feces, black mold, trash 3 feet deep.  The garage is separate property, packed full of stuff.  We have both and other family members "cherry picked", but it is very hazardous.  We have been sick for two weeks from respiratory issues. the cost to remediate versus the massive debt owed is really not equitable or worth the health risk.  Debtors want Their money at Our health, labor, roll back dumpsters expense.  You are more than welcome to take what you want.  I will wait outside and watch. 

[Huzo]

recently passed father in laws garage mess. 

.

[n3303j]

When the family member passes each one of us picks the items that will allow us fond memories of the deceased. My father died and I went to his machine shop (where I learned the Tool & Die trade) and collected hand tools and some small machines I would use. 25 years later I am still using these tools and remembering the times Dad taught me to use and care for them.

The house contents (after relatives chose a few pieces) went to a thrift shop at a wash. It is too easy to get buried in stuff that has little meaning and even less usefulness.

The dead guy certainly doesn't care. No one else cared enough to step up to the task. Huzo, you were a bit rough on John about his personal choices. I'm assuming his post must have triggered something in your history to elicit such a response.

[Moparnut72]

I am getting up there. I am actually trying to throw away stuff that I will probably never use and sell good things that I also will probably never use. I have told her just sell whatever for whatever price. I need to get a plastic label maker and put prices on a couple of the more valuable things, lathe, drill press, tool chests with tools etc. Otherwise if she doesn't want to bother with it just give it to Cris my estranged daughter`s ex. Still close to us. Meanwhile I will use it.
kk

[Huzo]

Huzo, you were a bit rough on John about his personal choices.

If you’re going to tell someone something, you can’t blame them for then knowing it.

Words like “valuable”, “not worth”, “take what you want” etc… Are tasteless when linked to the passing of another.
But if I have to explain what I think, my messaged will be lost anyway.
Back to the original thread.

[John Croucher]

[Huzo]

You just proved my point, not yours.
Dad is offering what HE sees is his most valued possessions to one he loves. To offer comments regarding the perceived worthlessness of such things, is what is somewhat lamentable.
But if you stop before the thread crashes completely, so will I and I’ll also ignore the PM’s that (needlessly) assure me I’m right….

[AJ Huff]

One of my greatest fears.

-AJ

[Huzo]

One of my greatest fears.

-AJ

What, that your Dad will pass, or that you’ll have to help him after he cannot help himself ?

[AJ Huff]

What, that your Dad will pass, or that you’ll have to help him after he cannot help himself ?

My grandmother was a hoarder, my mom was a hoarder, my dad is a hoarder. I don't want to deal with their hoard after they die.

-AJ

[AJ Huff]

Nc43BSA,

Can't you just McGyver it with a piece of chewing gum wrapper? 😀

Is the terminal completely eaten away? I've salvaged a few camera flashes that were heavily corroded thanks to Duracell batteries (will never buy again). Used a pencil eraser for the bulk with some judicious use of fine sand paper.

-AJ

[John Croucher]

You just proved my point, not yours.
Dad is offering what HE sees is his most valued possessions to one he loves. To offer comments regarding the perceived worthlessness of such things, is what is somewhat lamentable.
But if you stop before the thread crashes completely, so will I and I’ll also ignore the PM’s that (needlessly) assure me I’m right….

You lost me after your first opinion of my circumstances.  You really have know clue about My in-laws life, their life style over the many decades of knowing and living with them, their decade of failing health, the state of the estate, the magnitude of the messes financially and materially, lack of assistance from living siblings for decades, the amount of time and money my wife and I gave to care for them.  Only to be left to clean it all up. We, my wife and I gave a lot to sit and hold both their hands until their final breath.  This out classes the mess and cherry picking any day.  Being realistic, sure, it was the remnants of two peoples lives.  But it is primarily trash. We are giving away everything to all takers.  It is not about money or profit.  Hopefully someone will get use out of some of the mess. 

This is my 4th estate I have had dumped on me in 10 years.  I personally have 7 properties with a mess at each one.  I try to keep up and dream  of the day that I don't have to manage the messes.  I guess someday a classless person will bring in a roll back and toss a lot of it. 

[nc43bsa]

Nc43BSA,

Can't you just McGyver it with a piece of chewing gum wrapper? 😀

Is the terminal completely eaten away? I've salvaged a few camera flashes that were heavily corroded thanks to Duracell batteries (will never buy again). Used a pencil eraser for the bulk with some judicious use of fine sand paper.

-AJ

As a last resort, before tossing the micrometer, I'll try that.  I was hoping I could find a proper terminal somewhere when I disassembled it and saw how small it is and that it is replaceable.  It became a problem when I that no one has it in stock.

[pehayes]

DeOxit is great for cleaning terminal corrosion.  They make a 5% version for common use and then a 100% version for serious issues.  I've recovered a lot of battery socket corrosion with this product.  No repair unless the contacts are actually eaten away.

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[pehayes]

I've salvaged a few camera flashes that were heavily corroded thanks to Duracell batteries (will never buy again).

I have many battery items that sit a long time. As the batteries bleed off to zero, they start to leak and corrode.  Some brands are worse than others.  The cheapest 'original' batteries that come pre-installed are the worst!  I've had reasonable luck with Duracell.  However, in my camper I have numerous battery tools and instruments.  They sit a long time.  They get exposed to high and low temperature swings.  Tough abuse on a battery.  The BEST luck I have had so far is "Energizer Ultimate Lithium" cells.  I searched the Internet for a lot of advice on battery corrosion and these seem to be most highly rated.  Try.

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[AJ Huff]

Maybe cannibalize a broken one off eBay? Might even be able to use a different brand?

-AJ

[Antietam Classic Cycle]

As a last resort, before tossing the micrometer, I'll try that.  I was hoping I could find a proper terminal somewhere when I disassembled it and saw how small it is and that it is replaceable.  It became a problem when I that no one has it in stock.

Can you post a photo of the terminal so we can all see what's involved?

[nc43bsa]

I sent 3 photos to Patrick (at least I think they went to him).

I haven't figured out how to send the same pictures to WG.

[Lee Bruns]

Is there someone on this forum who would be willing and able to fabricate a battery terminal for a Mitutoyo digital micrometer?

I found a parts list and searched for it by part number, and I found it at a service center in Houston.  In placing an online order for that, the other battery terminal, an adjusting wrench, and a plastic storage case, the cart totaled $25.00 plus $48.00 shipping, which I thought was excessive.

I called them today to see if pickup was possible (to avoid the ridiculous shipping charge) and was told the one part that I HAD to have is out-of-stock, is obsolete, and can not be ordered.

I have part of the original terminal, which was damaged by a leaking alkaline battery.

  I believe I have a similar digital mititoyo. If you have a photo of your mic, and can indicate which part you need, I can use mine for the design to try to replicate it for you. Message me direct if it helps. or email MrLeeBruns@Gmail.com

[MattP]

Brother lee now that was is a nice reply i for one thank you..

[pehayes]

I just realized that the broken device under question is a MICROMETER.  I have a Mitutoyo CALIPER.  Thus the battery structure and body will not likely be the same.  However, the battery contact logic and design should be fairly similar between the devices so we'll see.  Here are the pics the OP sent to me.  We are clarifying off-line so maybe more later.

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[pehayes]

As it turns out, my digital micrometer IS also a Mitutoyo.  Might be a slightly older or newer version, but much the same.  Pictured below is the battery compartment from mine.  The rectangular shiny piece that bends upward is the missing contact from the OP unit pictured in messages above.  He needs someone to re-solder a tiny brass strip to the existing contact plate to replace what is missing.  Gently bent upwards thereafter.

As the soldering is a very dainty and perhaps error-prone process (and may even be too weak to handle the periodic flexing of the contact as batteries are changed), I might suggest using a tiny dab of conductive epoxy to simply glue on a replacement contact tang.  Worth a try.  Can't do permanent damage as the epoxy could be gently Dremeled away if necessary.  Conductive epoxy ain't cheap.  Amazon wants $100 for a tiny syringe of it!

Patrick Hayes


Fremont CA

[n3303j]

A number of those coin cells are available with various solder tab configurations. Maybe a tab could provide you with an alternate method of connection?

[nc43bsa]

Thanks for all the suggestions.

I have some brass shim stock somewhere in my scrap drawer, although I don't remember how thick it is.  If I can't come up with a replacement contact I can try repairing what I have.

Meanwhile, since I started this thread, I have looked on ebay and have found a non-functioning micrometer that is currently reasonably priced.  Time will tell if it sells for a reasonable price.  It may have a good set of battery contacts.

And thanks, Patrick, for posting my photos for me.

[AJ Huff]

Try this. This is what Charlie recommended for the turn signal switch on my Ambo.

Electrically Conductive Epoxy, Silver Adhesive, Room Temperature Cure, Air Dry AA-Duct 902, 2.5gm kit (1) (One Pack) https://a.co/d/byjdveF

-AJ