Gi Joe Repair: Choosing The Right Screw Size

G.I. Joe action figures have been a beloved toy for decades, with a dedicated fanbase that collects and restores these figures. One of the challenges in restoring vintage G.I. Joe figures is finding the correct replacement screws, as using the wrong size or type can damage the figure. The screws in G.I. Joe figures vary in size and style depending on the year of manufacture, with earlier screws having sharp points and later screws featuring blunt tips. Leg screws are typically smaller than back screws, and using a back screw in a leg can lead to damage. Collectors and restorers need to be cautious when sourcing replacement screws, as using screws with even slightly different threading can result in re-threading the screw hole, weakening the plastic.

Vintage GI Joes use different screw sizes for the back and legs

Over time, GI Joe figures changed from having pointy tip screws to flat-tipped screws. This change occurred in 1985. The flat-tipped screws introduced in the late 1980s were longer than the previous pointy screws, likely due to the bulkier torsos of the newer figures. It is important to note that flat-tipped screws should not be used with figures from 1982-1984 as they can damage the plastic. The original screws had a smaller diameter head, while the screws currently on the market have a larger head and will fit tightly, especially in the leg sockets.

If you are looking to replace the screws in your vintage GI Joe figures, it may be challenging to find exact replacements. The screws available online or in hardware stores might not have the same shape and size as the originals, and using these could potentially damage your figures. One option is to search for Joe parts that still have their original screws attached. Alternatively, you can try cleaning the screw head with fine steel wool to remove rust. If you decide to purchase replacement screws, be cautious as some people have reported issues with the threads cutting into the torsos of their figures.

Blunt-tipped screws can damage plastic if used in a pointy screw socket

When repairing a G.I. Joe action figure, it is important to use the correct type and size of screw. Using a screw with the wrong specifications can damage the toy. Specifically, using a blunt-tipped screw in a pointy screw socket can damage the plastic of the toy.

G.I. Joe action figures typically have screws in the back and legs. Vintage G.I. Joes used pointy tip screws, but in 1985, the design changed to flat-tipped screws. The flat-tipped screws used until the late 1980s had the same length as the pointy screws, but later, the screws became longer, possibly due to bulkier torsos.

Using the correct type of screw is crucial to avoid damaging the toy. If a blunt-tipped screw is used in a pointy screw socket, it can crack the plastic. This is because the flat-tipped screw has a larger diameter head and is longer, so it does not fit well in earlier G.I. Joe models. Therefore, it is recommended to use pointy screws if that was the original type of screw in the toy. While pointy screws can be used in toys that originally had flat-tipped screws, the opposite is not true.

The use of incorrect screw types can also be hazardous in other applications, such as electrical panels. Dead-front covers on electrical panels should be secured with blunt-tipped screws. However, it is common for these screws to be lost or replaced with sharp-tipped screws, which can be extremely dangerous. Sharp-tipped screws can cut through wire insulation and make contact with live wires, leading to electrical shocks or electrocution. Therefore, it is essential to use blunt-tipped screws in electrical panels to prevent injuries or accidents.

In conclusion, when repairing a G.I. Joe action figure or working with electrical panels, it is crucial to use the correct type of screw. Using a blunt-tipped screw in a pointy screw socket can damage the plastic in toys and lead to hazardous situations in electrical equipment.

Replacement screws can be purchased online or at hardware stores

If you're looking to repair your GI Joe action figure, you can easily purchase replacement screws and other parts online or at hardware stores.

Online retailers such as Amazon and Etsy offer a variety of repair kits and individual parts for GI Joe action figures. These kits typically include screws, O-rings, T-hooks, and spanners. Some kits also come with display stands and other accessories.

When purchasing replacement screws, it's important to consider the size and type of screw that you need. GI Joe figures from different years may have different screw sizes, and using the wrong size or type of screw can damage the figure. For example, flat-tipped screws can crack the plastic of older figures, so it's best to use pointy-tipped screws for figures from the early 1980s.

If you're unsure about the size or type of screw you need, it may be helpful to take a sample screw to a local hardware store or specialty screw store. They can help you find the right size and type of screw for your specific figure. However, keep in mind that specialty screws may need to be custom-made, which can be expensive and require a bulk order.

In addition to screws, you can also find other GI Joe action figure parts online, such as O-rings, T-hooks, and display stands. These parts can help you repair and restore your GI Joe figures to their original condition.

By purchasing replacement screws and other parts, you can keep your GI Joe action figures in good condition and continue enjoying them for years to come.

Removing rust from screws with sandpaper or WD-40 can help maintain their value

When repairing vintage GI Joe toys, you may encounter rusted screws. Removing rust from screws can help maintain the value of your GI Joe toys, and there are several methods to do so using sandpaper or WD-40.

Using Sandpaper

If the rust on the screws is light, you can try sanding the surface of the screw with sandpaper. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper to remove the rust and pockmarks, then finish with a finer grit to smooth out the grooves. This method requires some elbow grease but is effective for removing light rust.

Using WD-40

If you're looking for an easier option, you can use WD-40, a general-purpose lubricant, to help remove rusted screws. First, apply several swift hammer blows directly to the head of the screw. This breaks the rust's bond, creating channels for the lubricant to seep in and dissolve. Then, apply a liberal amount of WD-40 around the screw head and let it soak for a few minutes. After that, strike the screw head several more times and tap the metal surface around it to drive the lubricant deeper into the screw threads. Finally, try removing the screw. If it doesn't come out easily, you can add a small amount of automotive valve grinding compound or powdered kitchen/bath cleanser to the screw head to act as a "gripping paste." This will provide more grip between the screwdriver tip and the screw head, making it easier to remove the screw.

Other Methods

If the above methods don't work, you can try more aggressive techniques, such as cutting a new groove into stripped screws or using a heat lamp to heat and expand the rusted screw. However, always be cautious when using a heat source, as many lubricants, including WD-40, are flammable and can ignite if exposed to a flame.

Remember to clean and lubricate your screws regularly to prevent future rust and keep your GI Joe toys in good condition.

Spare screws can be found in damaged figures

When it comes to repairing your G.I. Joe figures, spare screws can be found in damaged figures. This is a great option if you are unable to find replacement screws in the correct size from other sources.

G.I. Joe figures from different years have varying screw sizes and styles. Earlier vintage figures feature sharp-pointed screws, while later figures mostly have blunt-tipped screws. The flat-tipped screws from the mid-1980s onwards are longer due to the bulkier torsos of the later figures. The screw shafts and heads of the vintage figures are all the same diameter.

It is important to use the correct type of screw for the specific figure. Using a flat-tipped screw in a socket designed for a pointy-tipped screw can result in damage to the plastic. The newer screws available on the market have larger-diameter heads, which can be too tight for the leg sockets of older figures. Therefore, it is recommended to grind down the ends of these modern screws before using them with figures from before 1988.

If you are unable to find the correct screw size or type for your G.I. Joe figure, you can try sourcing spare screws from damaged figures. This can be a cost-effective solution, as ordering custom screws from a factory typically requires a bulk order of thousands of screws, which can be expensive.

By carefully disassembling a damaged figure, you can salvage its screws for use in your repair project. This practice can also be applied to other small toys with similar screws, allowing you to build a collection of spare screws for future repairs.

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