Gemlux Friction Hinge Repair

[JohnAJohnson]

All my Gemlux friction hinges have failed. This is more of an expense ($700) than I can justify, with replacements required every three to four years.

I've recently written to Gemlux and they claim there is no repair, either by sending them in, or by doing it myself. And I'm not sure why they aren't easily overhaulable. Looks like standard washers available from McMaster-Carr or other places. There may even be an opportunity to substitute the bronze washers with phenolic, leather, or curved washers, who knows.

Has anyone had success rebuilding Gemlux friction hinges?

 

[alldodge]

Welcome
Which ones are costing you $700

 

[JohnAJohnson]

Welcome
Which ones are costing you $700

Thanks Alldodge.

I need 14 of these: https://gemlux.com/products/copy-of-friction-hinge-2-86x1-8
And two of these: https://gemlux.com/products/4236

 

[alldodge]

Just so I/we understand the issue(s). The hinges must be used a lot. In most cases a friction hinge is used only where the operation does not happen often. Something that gets used often should have something else to secure it when opened, like a gas strut, self locking latch or other

To your hinge issue
If it's the washers wearing out then I would use a die grinder and cut the bolt. Find stainless hardware at McMaster Carr get socket head bolts, washers and lock nuts. Could just tighten as needed until the washers need to be replaced again