How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape

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Use this guide to lubricate a rusted measuring tape.

Over time, measuring tapes can get rusty, making it hard to operate the measuring tape properly. This guide will show you six simple steps to lubricate your tape measure, helping it work like new again.

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crwdns2931653:01crwdne2931653:0 How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape

How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape, How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape: crwdns2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

Loosen and remove the 9.5 mm Phillips head screw using a #1 sized Phillips head screwdriver.
Remove the belt clip.
Use a small bowl or a towel to keep the screws and other pieces of the measuring tape in one place so the hardware does not get lost.
Measuring tape screws can vary depending on the brand. Inspect the size and type of the screws to determine the size and type of screw driver needed.

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How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape: crwdns2935265:02crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

Gently slide off or separate the plastic cover from the measuring tape.
Not all measuring tapes have an outer case. If no outer case is present, proceed to next step.

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How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape: crwdns2935265:03crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

Loosen and remove the 15.7 mm Phillips head screw(s) of the measuring tape case with the #1 Phillips head screwdriver.
Depending on the brand of the measuring tape, there may be more than one Phillips head screw holding the case together.

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How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape: crwdns2935265:04crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

Carefully open the measuring tape case by hand.
If the case is difficult to separate by hand, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the casing apart. Do not use excessive force as it may break the plastic casing.
Hold the measuring tape firmly while opening the case, keeping a good grip on both halves. Gently slide a finger inside to hold the spring and tape case so it does not move out of place or unravel.

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How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape: crwdns2935265:05crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

The small openings in the interior case that holds the tape and spring is where the lubricant (WD-40) will be applied.

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How to lubricate a Rusted Measuring Tape: crwdns2935265:06crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

Apply a small amount of lubricant (WD-40) at a time while periodically pulling the measuring tape in and out slowly to spread the lubricant.
Maintain gentle pressure on internal casing during movement to keep the spring and tape from moving out of position or unraveling.

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To put your measuring tape back together, follow these steps in reverse order. Make sure all parts are secure before snapping the case shut and screws are hand tightened. Once put back together, test the measuring tape by pulling the tape out and allowing it to retract.