Finger injury from prop change

[morewattsnow]

Last week I was changing a prop when I slipped and cut my left index finger on the bottom, severing the flexor tendon. Having surgery tomorrow to repair- a major deal. They cut you open to find the tendon ends and stitch them together, then you wear a splint while the tendon heals. THEN you start an intensive program of physical therapy, hoping to get as much movement as possible back into the finger. And why did it happen? I was in a big hurry to try another prop and didn't protect myself adequately. So learn from my mistake- you can SERIOUSLY injure yourself permanently this way. Now I use a partially used roll of 2" Frost king tape to hold the prop, making sure I have a good grip on it. Anyone else have a good method of holding the prop while loosening/tightening the nut?

[robbo1]

I hold the drive dog with needle nose pliers while tightening or loosening the prop nut. Keeps fingers well away from the prop.

[rickwess]

I always wrap the prop in a shop towel while changing it or removing the flex for greasing.

I hope your finger heals good as new.

[Chilli]

I use a towel or rag wrapped around the prop also.

[TheShaughnessy]

Third on the rag thing

[PowerDemon]

Also agree on holding the prop with a rag while tightening or loosening the prop.

[kfxguy]

Perfect example of why I use the bullets with a set screw and. Luella loctite. No need to hold the prop.

[morewattsnow]

I use a towel or rag wrapped around the prop also.

I wrapped the prop in a rag- it was so sharp it cut thru 4 layers right into my finger and pop- there went the tendon (and my summer with it).

[urbs00007]

001.jpgI use an allen wrench screwdriver that fits the drive dog set screw. one of the precision ones that gets a good grip in the setscrew. see pic.

[ls1fst98]

I did this exact injury with a knife in my garage. Finger snapped straight and couldn't bend it. Don't let them fool you, you need to be in physical therapy the week you have surgery. My surgeon didn't do that and scar tissue formed on the tendon and I've lost use of the tip of my left index finger. I cut both tendons and slot went through the first knuckle. I know your pain right now.

[ls1fst98]

As a matter of fact it's almost 2 years ago to the day I did mine. I had my surgery on July 3rd.

[ron1950]

ditto on the shop rags

[kfxguy]

Leather glove? Might be a good idea for you guys......

[grsboats]

This is more common than we think...reason I use an old leather glove for this task! Gill

[ls1fst98]

Look up a metal cut glove, meat cutters use them. Looks like chain mail.