The short-stroke snap-lock button punch miss

Button-punch locking tools require a full mechanical stroke to form an irreversible, structural interlocking button lip through both plies of sheet metal. Open the long handles completely wide, seat the jaw indentation dies flush over the exact center line.

Stop if

• The joint popped open because you short-stroked the button punch and left the lock tab flat. Open the arms wide, align the jaws square over the overlap, and give it a solid two-handed crunch until the handles bottom out completely.

Watch out

• Do not force the tool through the problem or substitute the wrong tool just to keep moving.

Check

• Check the raw edge, pocket, or overlap before locking the joint.
• Seat the tool fully and square before applying force.
• Use a full controlled stroke when the tool needs a mechanical lock.
• Test the fit before sending the piece overhead.
• Remake or re-edge the part if the lock will not hold.

Steps

• Check the raw edge, pocket, or overlap before locking the joint.
• Seat the tool fully and square before applying force.
• Use a full controlled stroke when the tool needs a mechanical lock.
• Test the fit before sending the piece overhead.
• Remake or re-edge the part if the lock will not hold.

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