How to use shaft clamps on small shafts
Clamping & Torquing Small Shafts
This guide covers 8 mm to 5/8" shafts in air shocks, dampers, and air springs. Bad clamping can destroy shafts or tools. Done right, you’ll have firm grip with minimal force and zero damage.
1. Clean Everything Thoroughly
Wipe both shaft and clamp 2–3 times with 70% isopropyl alcohol, especially if handled or left out.
2. Always Wrap in Paper or Shop Towel
This adds friction. Standard paper towels work great.
One spray of 70% isopropyl alcohol on the paper before clamping.
3. Clamp Orientation: Vertical vs. Horizontal
Vertical clamping is safest. Horizontal is only okay if the clamp is wider than the body (our horizontal clamps are designed for that).
4. Low Torque, Watch for Loctite
Most parts unscrew at 8–10 Nm. If they don’t unscrew, red Loctite may be present, don’t force it.
5. Breaking Loctite: Heat the Right Part
Use a heat gun or torch for 4–5 seconds.
Carefull, these clamps are made of plastic, you don't wanna make them soft and melt!
6. Use the Right Tool to Loosen
Always use a proper open-end wrench (never a torque wrench) to unscrew eyelets. A 12.7 mm (½″) spanner fits best; a snug 13 mm can work but risks damage. A 10″ soft-jaw Knipex plier is ideal.
7. Re-Clean & Re-Wrap Before Torquing
Before final torque, wipe everything again with isopropyl, wrap a fresh layer of paper towel, and dampen a spray with alcohol. If it still slips, tighten the clamp slightly more but don’t overdo it. Excess force can crack the clamp.
8. Measuring Torque Arm Length
Using our Luggage Scale Torque Calculator? Measure from the center of the bolt head to the exact point where the scale hook will pull. That measurement is your torque multiplier; get it wrong and your torque is wrong.
9. Reinstalling an Eyelet or Small Part
Step 1: Check for Loctite
Most manuals specify a drop of red Loctite on the threads, apply one drop or 2 max, avoid seals.
Step 2: Torque Correctly
Hand-thread until snug, then finish with a torque wrench or our luggage scale method. Low-torque jobs (<10 Nm) demand accuracy, never guess or you can break the shaft.
Damper shafts need very low torque. Exceeding ~10 Nm can snap the shaft or strip threads. If in doubt, go 2 Nm lower. Anyway there is Loctite.
FOX Float X2: Special Case
The Float X2 has extremely tight shaft-to-body clearance. It requires its own clamp and procedure, see this page for details.
Thanks for reading through the entire guide, you’re all set to clamp and torque like a pro! Everything on this site is here to help you work smarter, safer, and more confidently.
These instructions are provided as guidelines only. Improper use, over-torquing, or contamination can damage parts and void warranties. By proceeding with these steps, you accept our Terms of Service and assume full responsibility for your work.
Need help? Contact us