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The iFixit Precision Bit Driver is an aluminum or plastic handle that fits 4 mm bits. Found in the Manta, Mako, Moray, Mahi, Minnow, Essential Electronics, Pro Tech and Pro Tech Go Toolkits from iFixit.

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How to get magnet to stay inside driver tip?

The magnet inside my 4mm Precision Bit Driver came out attached to the bit (see picture). How can I get it to stay back in the driver handle's tip?

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My question is essentially the opposite of How to remove magnet stuck inside driver head. @billg66 gave some instructions for replacing the magnet:

  1. Use a bit or the punch (better) to return the magnet to its seat, tap it a couple of firm taps with a small hammer. it seems to stay in place.
  2. For more security, you might try dropping a small amount of iron filings down the tube from the other end along with a drop or two of cyanoacrylate glue This will likely bond sufficiently to hold the magnet more firmly.

Tapping the magnet does not seem to keep it in place. Is superglue on the back of the magnet my best option, or are there others?

(And I'm aware of the lifetime guarantee on the driver, but I'd like to try and fix it before requesting a replacement.)

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Hi Mike, I'd say that cyanoacrylate is good, but it has some perils and is, to a certain extent, hard to control. It might be the strongest, though. Another possibility would be to use a tiny piece (1/2 to 1/3 of a match head or a 2-3mm ball) of Sugru moldable adhesive on the back of the magnet.

  • Then tap the magnet into place using a plastic, aluminum, or brass rod (anything non-magnetic so it doesn't pull on it when you try to withdraw it).
  • The Sugru will fill any voids and will bond to the magnet. Let it set for 24-48 hours. (it is a slow-set silicone adhesive)
  • You can try the same thing with other epoxies, but you risk stuff wiping off on the sides of the hex channel. Sugru won't do this. Whatever you use has to be very thick.
  • Be prepared to clean the face of the magnet if the Sugru squeezes out.

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Thanks, Bill! I love that your answers list things to watch out for along with the solutions. I'll try it out.

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