Dismantling a Fingerpost

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Corrosion is the enemy! The age and condition will present DIY challenges – all too often internal corrosion will prevent full dismantling on site and removal of all, or part, of the post will require some workshop labours and tooling.

However, whatever design, removal of the wooden fingers is straightforward unbolting – providing the bolts are not corroded!

If the post itself is damaged or badly corroded, then the best option is to have ‘Highways’ remove the post to a workshop and install new. This service we can arrange Free of Charge!

 

Since post design and materials has evolved over time, dismantling procedure will vary.

Early cast iron or alloy post components are unlikely to be successfully dismantled in-situ, so refurbishment will need either: 

• to be done on-site – mechanical paint removal, surface preparation and repainting 

• or have the post removed to a workshop. We can arrange this through ‘Highways’

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Later geared systems can often be dismantled fully on site with general hand tools, although be prepared to drill some grub screws; and a large wrench will be needed to unscrew the top securing ring to release the brackets.

However, severe corrosion between the alloy brackets and supporting mild steel spindle will require some more industrial tooling/methods. We have the tooling here at Dorset Fingerpost Restorers; with considerable experience both on-site and in our workshop.

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A printable version of these instructions can be downloaded here