Amp handle bolt threaded

guitarmangler

On Friday’s gig, after finishing and just before descending down a three story fire escape, one bolt on my Yamaha dg 80’s handle threaded. 

Amp is fine (used Saturday) but I feel a little like a contestant in the worlds strongest man carrying it at the mo!

Is there an easy, or logical, way of fixing it? I assume just putting a slightly wider bolt would be described a bodge? I’d rather not take the amp apart to get to the chassis, but also I’d not to a job twice. 

ecc83

Do y.ou mean that the bolt thread has stripped? If so it would seem pointless to restore the original mode of fixing as it is obviously ***t and needs a better solution!

I have to say, handles on guitar amps seem to be a weak area in terms of strength, longevity and number fitted! I.E. some 'king heavy amps need TWO lugging points.

Dave.

ICBM

You need to get inside and replace the T-nut, even if it’s mostly the bolt that’s stripped - the T-nut thread will be damaged too and weaker even if you put a new bolt in.

With very heavy amps it can be a good idea to put a nut on the inside of the T-nut as well, if there’s enough bolt thread. If not, you might be better to fit a larger handle with two bolts at each end - but not the ‘dog bone’ type with a cast alloy bracket at each end, I’ve seen quite a few of those snap.

End handles are the best option.

guitarmangler

Thanks, chaps. I’ve been gigging with this amp
for 20+ years and the amp weighs 25kg. I’ll probably take it apart and add some nuts as @ICBM says. 

One handle for such a heavy amp is just silly! 

ecc83

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If the amp is that old is it also a bit beat up? If so fit a couple of the above? Might be a good opportunity to strip the chassis out and the speaker, de-fluff everything, if some joints seem a bit wobbly, run some PVA into them and sash cramp the cab.

Dave.