Zippers are ubiquitous in modern life, found on everything from clothing to luggage to tents. While they are generally durable, zippers can occasionally break, and one of the most common problems is a broken slider. Replacing a metal zipper slider is a relatively simple repair that can be done in a few minutes with a few basic tools.
Tools You’ll Need
- New metal zipper slider
- Pliers
- Wire cutters
- Screwdriver (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove the old slider. Grip the old slider with the pliers and gently squeeze to loosen it. Pull the slider up the zipper tape until it comes off.
- Cut the old stop. The stop is a small metal piece that prevents the slider from coming off the end of the zipper tape. Use the wire cutters to cut the old stop off the zipper tape.
- Install the new stop. Slide the new stop onto the zipper tape and crimp it into place with the pliers.
- Install the new slider. Slide the new slider onto the zipper tape and push it down until it clicks into place.
- Test the zipper. Zip and unzip the zipper a few times to make sure it is working properly.
Tips
- If the zipper tape is damaged, you may need to replace it as well.
- If the slider is stuck, you can try to lubricate it with a little bit of oil or graphite.
- If you are replacing the slider on a heavy-duty zipper, you may need to use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the slider in place.
Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble replacing the metal zipper slider, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- The slider won’t come off. The slider may be stuck due to corrosion or dirt. Try to lubricate it with a little bit of oil or graphite. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use a pair of pliers to gently pry it off.
- The slider won’t stay on. The stop may not be crimped tightly enough. Use the pliers to crimp the stop more tightly into place.
- The zipper won’t zip or unzip smoothly. The zipper tape may be damaged or the slider may be misaligned. Inspect the zipper tape for any damage and make sure that the slider is properly aligned.
Conclusion
Replacing a metal zipper slider is a simple repair that can be done in a few minutes with a few basic tools. By following the instructions in this article, you can easily fix a broken zipper and get it back in working order.