What do you use to ... ?

[SPYDERLK]

,,,,,,,,,Reset a threaded knob - like on a gearshift, etc. It seems they are originally set with some rigid but weak glue compatible with plastic and metal.

 

[MossRoad]

If the threads aren't stripped, try a small lock washer. Or some thread locker like lock-tite.

 

[dieselcrawler]

JBWeld... amazing stuff.

 

[5030]

270 series threadlocker (Gel) will lock it on. Problem is, you need heat to release it. You could get creative and install a thread insert n the ball....

 

[Baby Grand]

270 series threadlocker (Gel) will lock it on. Problem is, you need heat to release it. You could get creative and install a thread insert n the ball....

I had a nice walnut shifter knob on one of my cars that was always unscrewing itself. Finally got it to stay put by installing a threaded insert with a set screw - something like the Universal that these guys sell:
Shift Knob Adapters << American Shifter

 

[SPYDERLK]

I guess I should say I want to be able to take them off again.
... I recently lost shuttle shift control on the 7520 and while fixing I removed the floor and seat platform. This required taking off some knobs. They all yielded to very firm hand force. There was some glue securing their rotational position -- a plastic to metal threaded joint. I have found in the past that they will end up rotating back and forth a little in use if not re secured. Lock nuts and lock washers are not an option.

...... Im thinking there must be some secret sauce used for it.

 

[CalG]

I guess I should say I want to be able to take them off again.
... I recently lost shuttle shift control on the 7520 and while fixing I removed the floor and seat platform. This required taking off some knobs. They all yielded to very firm hand force. There was some glue securing their rotational position -- a plastic to metal threaded joint. I have found in the past that they will end up rotating back and forth a little in use if not re secured. Lock nuts and lock washers are not an option.

...... Im thinking there must be some secret sauce used for it.

DUCO cement can work to "fix" looseness. The cheapest 5 min epoxy used sparingly is something else that has done the job in similar situations.
The stuff that smells "fishy". It never really hardens, and "A little dab 'll do ya".

 

[JRobyn]

I really like "Pliobond" where good grip and some joint flex may be involved. Perfect for sticking down the halves of velcro tape to most surfaces.

 

[Junkyard Jim]

Put a wrap or two of some plumbers tape on the last few threads. It puts enough "bind" on it that it won't vibrate loose, but you can still remove it when you want to. Don't go too thick or you can split your plastic knob. Your thickness may vary.

 

[SPYDERLK]

Thanks for all the ideas. I like Pliobond - need to have some around. Both it and Duco are solvent based tho, and the plastic knob threads would worry me. Typical Loctite products attack some plastics as well, but I think they have a special one for plastic. The long thread engagement worries me too. Too many bonded and youre really STUCK.

... Anyway, I tried the knobs back on with nothing and theres a good tight friction fit down to a stop [good point about too much tape]. I think the knobs are going to stay put. The shift knob is the exception. It will turn in the "heat of battle" if Im not attentive. Im going to try egg white 1st. I know it wont be too strong.